First 


Presby terian Church 


af id 
“Kittanning, Pennayoenia a | 





Juliette Robinson 2 1. 


ei tee” tA 


nla? 


ed 


—— 


iT a bt 











Re SALTED 





TAT AV 


A HISTORY 


of 


One Hundred Years 


of the 





Re SAT eSATA SA 

















AINA ATT ES 


ae 





First Presbyterian Church 
of 
Kittanning, Pennsylvania. 


LS ea ly, 








nA OTT 


IN 















nis 














7 








Compiled by 
JULIETTE ROBINSON 






THE ZIEGLER PRTG. CO., BUTLER, PA. 


GLO rN die bene les 


Sem 0 moe ete 


PAGE 

A Tribute: of Affection =). = 95-7 1-8-9 Bea 
Foreword ®\ij-) yt 2 a a ee 
Introduction - - - - - - - - ab atc. 
Charter aE Tip hie 1 Ea eke Ae ee - ache ee ey pon Arde 
Supplement - . - - - - - > 1+ 
Amendments - eee - ~ - - =e 10 
Constitution and By-Laws - - - - - ay Ne 
History by Rev. T. D. Ewing, D. D. - - - mn ONES 
Sample Narrative and Report . - - - - 40 
Pastors - - - - - - - - - Get: 
Rev. James Campbell - - - - - - 44 
Rev. Joseph Painter, D.- D. - - - - - 44 
Reverie DiEwings)) see - - - - Petes 
Rev.-H. L.. Mayers; Ds BD: - - - - aaa y fe, 
Rev. Wm. J. Hutchison, D. D. - - - - - 98 
Rev. A. E. Driggers - - - - - - 102 
Elders and Deacons” - - ~ . - - Bee Seo 4 
Communions~— - - . - - - - - a a OO 
Special Occasions” - - - . - - - aA ell 
Sunday School - - - - - - - - Br 
Choir - - - - - - - - - = eS 
Women’s Societies - - - - - . - - 118 
Woman's Foreign Missionary Society - - . 118 
Woman’s Home Mission Society - - - - 122 
Pastor's Aid Society’ - - : - - - ac oy BBZS 
Industrial Circle - - - - - . = el OF, 
Woman’s Union - - - - - - + = 128 
Young People’s Work - - - . - - sie G9 
Church Edifices - - - - - - - - 136 
First) Ghurch. -— - - - - - - eho 
Second Church - - - - - - - 140 
Third Church - - - - - - - - 149 
Laying of Corner Stone - - - - = sala 
Farewell and Dedicatory Services - - - 106 

Fourth Church - - - - - - - 275 
Laying of Corner Stone - - : - ~~ espe 
Dedicatory Services - - - - - - 279 

Trustees - - - - - - - . - - 289 
Some Amusing Incidents — - - - - - - - 293 
Ninety-fifth Anniversary — - - - - - ~or Daley 


Centennial Celebration -~ - = » 2 - - 327 


A Tribute of Affection 


Soamo< > am ye 


Presbyterians have always had an abiding conviction that 
when God has an important task to be performed He raises up 
some one who has been fully prepared and who is therefore 
eminently fitted to meet the exigencies of the occasion. 

In the pages which follow we believe the members and friends 
of our church will find further proof of the soundness of that faith. 
Herein is unfolded with increasing interest the record of the pro- 
gress and the achievements of the one hundred years of a people 
consecrated to the service of our Lord, Jesus Christ. It will be 
found, we confidently believe, to be an engrossing narrative, 
abounding with facts and information, both entertaining and 1m- 
portant. Nor is it lacking in romantic interest. 

Throughout, there is unmistaken evidence of a Supreme 
Power moulding, shaping and directing the affairs of the congre- 
gation. Perhaps nowhere has the presence of this Providential 
eguldance been more manifest than in the preparation and publi- 
cation of this volume. Long contemplated and anticipated, the 
time did not seem opportune to make it a reality until after the 
memorable centennial anniversary ceremonies which were held in 
1922. When finally the way opened and the Industrial Circle 
assumed the responsibility, one who seemed predestined for the 
work was happily found in our own church family. On the sunset 
side of life, richly endowed with natural literary ability and able 
to draw deeply from the well-springs of Memory, thereby supple- 
menting and enlarging existing official archives, this friend has 
elven our people a History that is extraordinarily accurate and 
complete in every detail. 

A descendant of two charter members; born in Kittanning, 
August 10, 1848, baptized in the First Church November 27, 1848, 
received into full membership April 2, 1864; name first on the roll 
of the congregation since January, 1925; officially connected with 
the Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society for about 40 years and 
recording secretary for most of that period; treasurer of the 


6 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Woman’s Home Missionary Society of the Kittanning Presby- 
tery for 25 years; possessed of a clear recollection of each one of 
the pastors who has served our church since its organization, with 
one exception, and an intimate personal friendship with three of 
the number, viz: Doctors T. D. Ewing, H. L. Mayers and W. J. 
Hutchison, whose combined leadership of our church aggregates 
sixty-one years of the century which this volume embraces, creates 
an admirable background of ancestry, service and personal knowl- 
edge against which this work has been cast. Almost two years of 
earnest, conscientious, tireless research have been devoted to the 
undertaking with no thought of remuneration or compensation 
other than a sense of satisfaction in the discharge of a duty to an 
institution dearer to her than life itself and the successful com- 
pletion of the effort is, we feel sure readers will agree, a beautiful 
capsheaf to a full, well rounded Christian life. 

For this signal performance of an arduous task and in grateful 
acknowledgment of unremitttng zeal and labor, as well as a tribute 
to unflagging loyalty and devotion to everything that pertains to 
the Kingdom, this History of One Hundred Years of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 1s therefore ascribed and dedi- 
cated to our beloved friend and co-laborer, Miss Juliette Robinson, 
of Kittanning, Pennsylvania. 


“A life on service bent, 
A life for love laid down; 
It is the life for others spent 
W hich God will crown.” 
—Allenson 


AGNES S. BOWMAN, 

LoURENE R. WILSON 

/ JEANNETTE Bovarp, 
Committee from Industrial Circle 


ROLAND B. SIMPSON, 
E.. TAYLor HUTCHISON, 
Committee from Session 


Foreword 


036) 0m mm (020 


It is the belief of some people that a record of outstanding 
events in the first century of our church’s life should be put into 
a convenient form for the use of private members. The task of 
doing this was not of my seeking but was undertaken after re- 
peated urgings upon the part of a committee from the Industrial 
Chir cle: 

Very little originality is claimed for the work. Some _inci- 
dents, not to be found in the archives, are recorded from memory, 
but for the most part I have built upon the foundation laid by 
others. Thanks are due all who supplied the materials. 

Of necessity there is repetition—This could not be avoided in 
justice to the authors of manuscripts) which include historical 
sermons and addresses spoken, as well as letters and messages sent 
on special occasions. Where reports are meagre it 1s because data 
were not available. 

| have endeavored to make a wise selection from the mass of 
documents loaned to me and hope the reader will be satisfied with 
my choice. It has not been easy to discriminate between the im- 
portant and the trivial. 

As this 1s my first venture upon so wide a sea of literature, | 
trust my frail bark will be able to weather any storm of criticism 
it may encounter and find a welcome into many a port. 

Ata 


Introduction 


030) > 0-0 em 059 


“The First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning” was one of the 
first church organizations in the village. The Constitution was 
signed by 56 persons, not all of whom were of Presbyterian faith. 
Several of them were Episcopalians and others Methodists who 
affiliated with churches of their choice as soon as opportunity 
offered. Some of the names are not familiar while a few of the 
signers were never identified with any church and in after years 
did not attend services of any denomination. But no doubt all 
these people, whether professing christians or not, felt the neces- 
sity of having a Church here as an Institution which would con- 
tribute to the best interests of the community. This church was 
organized August 31, 1822. The records tell that there were 22 
original members but only 21 names appear on the roll. There 
has been a tradition in the writer’s family that the name of our 
ereat-grandmother, Agness Robinson was the one omitted. This 
good woman lived here a number of years before the church was 
founded. She and her husband had been members at Mt. Pleasant 
and Poke Run. Certificates from both these churches are among 
the family heirlooms. The one from Mt. Pleasant is dated on 
“this 4th day of September, 1789.” The husband died here in 
1815. Below is a copy of the church letter sent to his wife the 
following year: 


“These are to certify that the bearer Agness Robison 
lived a considerable time in the bounds of Poke Run 
Congregation, that she was received into the Com- 
munion of our Church, that her conduct was regular 
and such as becometh the gospel and left us about 
seven or eight years ago free from scandal or any 
ground of censure known to us and is hereby recom- 
mended to any branch of Christ’s church where God 
in his providence may cast her lot is certified by me.’” 


FRANCIS Lairp, V.D.M. 


Signed by order of the Session of Poke Run 
June the 8th, 1816. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 9 


There is no record of Agness Robinson’s having been received 
into this church at any subsequent time, yet her name is the first 
on the “roll of those in communion in the First Presbyterian 
Church in the Borough of Kittanning on the 29th day of June, 
1834.” In her obituary, written by Rev. Dr. Painter, it is stated 
that she was a charter member of this church and in Dr. Ewing’s 
historical sermon her name 1s 1n the list of those received on certi- 
ficate when the church was organized. It seems strange that she 
should have been considered a member if she had never joined and 
still more strange if she had neglected that duty, for she was a 
godly woman. 

One explanation is that the scribe who copied the names did 
not know that there were two Mrs. Robinsons and left a blank to 
be filled later, which was neglected or forgotten. Agness Robinson 
and Lydia Robinson were mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. 
This bit of family history may not interest the reader but is 1m- 
portant in the opinion of the descendants of these two women who 
are firm in their belief that not only one, but two of their fore- 
bears were among the founders of this church. 


Names of earliest members of this church and their descendants 
who are members here now are as follows: 


David Johnston. admitted August 31, 1822. Descendant, 
Charles Watterson. 

Samuel and Mary Matthews admitted August 31, 1922. Des- 
cendants, Mrs. Mary (Kron) Peecock, her son George; daughter, 
Eva; grandson, Charles Bovard, and sister, Eva Kron. 

James Montieth admitted August 31, 1822. Descendants, 
Mrs. Adele (Gilpin) McCain, her sons, Samuel H., Jr., and John 
Gilpin McCain. 

Lydia Robinson admitted August 31, 1822, and Agness Robin- 
son (date of admission is not recorded but is believed to have 
been the same.) Descendants, Mrs. Elizabeth (Bowman) 
Slaymaker, Agness Bowman, Juliette Robinson. 

A couple who came in later were “Alexander Colwell and 
Margaret, his wife’, admitted June 29, 1834. Their daughters, 
Mrs. Sarah A. Crawford, Miss Amanda Colwell, Mrs. Harriet H. 
Calhoun and Mrs. Eliza N. Meredith, were members of this 
church and faithful “doers of the work’. Descendants here are 


10 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Mrs. Caroline (Meredith) Clayland and daughter, Margaret 
Clayland. 

The first records were kept by a fine penman whose handwrit- 
ing is like copper-plate. It is probable that this writer was 
Thomas Hamilton as his Bible has memoranda concerning sacra- 
ments at Kittanning and Lawrenceburg (now Parker). These 
entries are made by the same person between 1822 and 1829. The 
next and last entry is in a different handwriting. ~homas Ham- 
ilton died August 17, 1829. 

In the early years of this church the Session obeyed Paul’s in- 
junction to the elders of the church ‘at Ephesus. “Take heed 
therefore unto yourselves and to all the flock over which the Holy 
Ghost has made you overseers.” Applicants “for admission to the 
sealing ordinances of the church” were often put upon a sort of 
probation. “The Session agreed to receive and hold the applica- 
tion under advisement till the next celebration of the Lord’s Sup- 
per” was a way of treating applicants, especially if they had been 
euilty of known sin. On one occasion a member was reprimanded 
for betting on the election but after the Session had gone into the 
matter thoroughly it was deemed unnecessary to take any further 
action upon the subject and the delinquent “was allowed to act 
according to his own discretion in reference to partaking of the 
Lord’s Supper on the following Sabbath.” Others were cited for 
such delinquencies as non-attendance upon the means of grace, 
and language unbecoming a christian. One wonders how many 
of us would go unrebuked today 1f we were taken to strict account 
for our shortcomings, and also how many of these judges were 
“without sin” themselves? 

October 17, 1841, arrangements were made for collections to 
be taken four times during the year. In the Fall for Domestic 
Missions; Winter—Foreign Missions; Spring—Board of Educa- 
tion; Summer—Western Theological Seminary. This was the be- 
ginning of Benevolent Work in our Church. 


Charter 


039) > 0 0% 


Charter of Incorporation. 


Charter of Incorporation of the The Congregation of the First 
First Presbyterian Church pee resbytetiane 1 Churen m1 
of Kittanning Kittanning, Armstrong 


County, Pennsylvania 


Citizens of this Commonwealth, being associated together and 
desirous to acquire and enjoy the powers and immunities of a 
corporation or body politic in law for religious purposes, agree- 
ably to the provisions of an Act of Assembly of this Common- 
wealth entitled “An act relating to Orphans’ Courts and for other 
purposes” passed the 13th of October, 1840, have adopted the fol- 
lowing articles of association. 


Article Ist 


The name, style or title of this association shall be “The First 
Presbyterian Church of Kittanning.” 


Article 2nd 


The business of this Congregation shall be managed by seven 
Trustees, four of whom shall be a quorum. They shall choose 
from among this number a President and Secretary and from 
the other male members of the congregation, a Treasurer who 
shall give approved security for the performance of his duties. 


Article 3rd 


Alexander Colwell, Adam McConnell, A. L. Robinson, Joseph 
McCartney, Darwin Phelps, John R. Johnston and James E. 
Brown shall be Trustees of said Congregation until the third 
Wednesday of November next. 


12 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 
Articie 4th 


None but male members of the Congregation professing to hold 
the doctrines and approve of the discipline of “The General As- 
sembly of the Presbyterian Church of the United States of 
America,” which met in the Seventh Presbyterian Church in 
Philadelphia on the 21st day of May, 1840, shall be eligible to the 
office of Trustee. Full communion in the church shall be re- 
quisite. 

Article 5th 


Election for Trustees shall be by ballot and shall be held in 
the. Meeting house, yearly on the third Wednesday of November 
and conducted by the Session of the church of which at least two 
weeks public notice from the pulpit or otherwise shall be given. 
At said election the owner or owners of each pew shall be entitled 
to one vote. In case of failure or neglect to hold the annual elec- 
tion, the Trustees then in office shall continue until an election be 
held, which the Session shall cause to be done without delay giving 
two weeks previous notice in manner aforesaid. All vacancies 
shall be supplied by the Trustees in office. 


Article 6th 


The Trustees. shall have power to enact and enforce such 
rules, by-laws, and ordinances as they shall think proper for the 
regulation and transaction of the business and management of 
the congregation; to purchase, receive and hold for the use of the 
congregation, all and every kind of property, whether real, per- 
sonal or mixed; to sell, rent or dispose of the same or any part 
thereof and from time to time to collect and appropriate the pro- 
ceeds thereof for the use aforesaid; and to engage, employ and 
support a minister of the Gospel who shall be in connection with 
the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church aforesaid, pro- 
vided that all such rules, by-laws, and ordinances;—purchasing, 
receiving and holding of property, selling, renting or disposing of 
the same, and appropriating the proceeds thereof; and engaging, 
employing and supporting a minister of the Gospel shail be ap- 
proved by a majority of the members of the congregation present 
at a meeting convened on two weeks public notice given as afore- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 13 


said, except that the purchase or sale of real estate shall require 
the approbation of two-thirds of the members present at such 
"meeting. 


Article 7th 


The Secretary shall record all the rules, by-laws and ordin- 
ances, the minutes and proceedings of the public meetings of the 
Congregation and such other matters as may be deemed proper, 
in a record to be kept by him for that purpose. 


Article 8th 


The Trustees shall make an annual exhibit to the members, of 
the financial concerns of the congregation. 

Signed by the said Trustees for and in behalf of the said asso- 
ciation the 13th day of March, 1841. 


_ A. CoLwELL 
JosEPH MCCARTNEY 
ADAM McCoNNELL 
JNo. R. JOHNSTON 
A. L. RoBINsoN 
J. E. Brown 


18 March, 1841, Court directs this Instrument to be filed and 
direct notice to be published in one newspaper published in the 
Borough of Kittanning for three successive weeks setting forth 
that application has been made to incorporate said congregation 
by the name of “The First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning,” 
and if no sufficient cause be shown to the contrary at the June 
Term of said Court—a charter of Incorporation will be Decreed 
and Declared. 

Now to-wit June 26th, 1841, upon proof of publication of the 
Notice directed by Act of Assembly and ordered by this Court 
of Common Pleas of Armstrong County that the persons associated 
by the within instrument being the congregation of the First Pres- 
byterian Church in Kittanning, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, 
be and are hereby decreed to be a corporation and body politic 


14 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


and the Court further orders this Act of Charter of Incorporation 
to be recorded in the Recorder of Deeds office in and for Armstrong 
County. 

Recorded 30 Dec. 1841 | 

Copied from Deed Book, Vol. 12, page 630. 


From Deed Book, Vol. 29, P. 397 


CHARTER 


The Congregation of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Kit- 
tanning, Armstrong County, 
Pennsylvania, citizens of the 


Supplement to the Charter of 
the First Presbyterian Church 
of Kittanning 


Commonwealth being associated together and desirous to ac- 
quire and enjoy the Powers and immunities of a Corporation as 
body Politic in law for Religious purposes, agreeably to the pro- 
visions of an Act of Assembly of the Commonwealth were on the 
26th day of June, 1841, chartered and decreed to be a body 
Politic and Corporate and for the more perfectly carrying out the 
objects of said association have adopted the following Amend- 
ments to the then Article of Association. 

Article 4th—In lieu of the Present Article 4th—None but 
male members of the Congregation professing to hold the Doc- 
trines and approve of the discipline of the General Assembly of 
the Presbyterian Church of the United States of America which 
met in the Seventh Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia on the 
21st day of May, 1840, shall be eligible to the office of Trustee. 

Full Communion shall not be required. 

Article 5th—In lieu of the Present Article 5th election for 
Trustees shall be by ballot and shall be held in the building occu- 
pied as house of worship—either in the Audience Room or some 
other one Annually On the third Wednesday of November and 
Conducted by the Session of the Church of whom Two at least 
shall be present of which Election at least two weeks Public notice 
shall be given from the Pulpit or otherwise at which Election 
each owner of any pew or part of a pew and each renter of a Pew 
or part of a pew shall be entitled to one vote—And in case of 


- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 15 


failure or neglect to hold the annual Election at the time fixed, The 
Trustees then in office shall continue until an Election be held 
& which the Session shall cause to be done without delay giving 
Two weeks notice in the manner aforesaid—All vacancies Occur- 
ring in the Board shall be supplied by the Trustees remaining in 
office who shall have power to appoint Suitable persons to fill said 
Vacancies. | 


The proviso to Article 6th to be amended so as to read as fol- 
lows: 


Provided that the purchasing, receiving and holding of prop- 
erty selling, renting and disposing of the same and the appropria- 
tion of the proceeds thereof—The Engaging, Employing and 
Supporting of a minister of the Gospel Shall be approved by a 
majority of the members of the Congregation present at a meet- 
ing Convened after giving two weeks previous notice as of * * * * 
Except the purchase and Sale of Real Estate which shall require 
the approval of two-thirds of the members present at such meeting 
and provided further that this proviso Shall not extend to the 
Selling and renting of the pews. 


RoBert McKaIn Pet evicGCuLLlocH (SEAL) 
J. A. CoLwELt ROBERT ORR (SEAL) 
James McCuLLouGH 
P. K. BOWMAN 
JNo. V. PAINTER 


And now to-wit: 17th December 1864 the Court directs this 
Instrument to be filed and Published in one newspaper in the 
Borough of Kittanning for three successive weeks setting forth 
that application has been made to have the Charter of Incorpora- 
tion amended and if no sufficient cause be shown to the contrary 
at the next Term of Court commencing first Monday of March, 
1805, the Supplemental Charter will be decreed and declared. 


Decree of the Court 


And now to-wit 8th March 1865 the matter came on to be heard 
and upon due and full consideration it is ordered adjudged and 
decreed that the Amendments asked for being lawful and bene- 


16 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 





ficial they are deemed and taken to be a part of the Instrument 
upon which Corporation was formed and established to all intents 
and purposes as if the same had originally been made a part thereof 
and they order and direct that the same be recorded in the office 
for recording Deeds in Armstrong County. 


“By THE Court.” 


State of Pennsylvania, 
Armstrong County, | 


(Seal) I, James S. Quigley, Prothonotary of the Court of 
Common Pleas in and for said County, do hereby certify that the 
foregoing is a correct copy of the Docket Entry together with all 
the paper filed attached in the Matter of the Supplement or 
amended Charter of Incorporation of the first Presbyterian Church 
of Kittanning, the same being the entire record. 

In Testimony whereof, | have hereunto set my hand and affixed 
the Seal of our said Court at Kittanning, this 9th day of March, 
ASD roo: 

Attéstte) | 25a QUIGLEY amoedie 
(Stamped five cents.) 


Recorded 9th March, 1865 


Charter Book 2, Page 376 


“THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF KITTANNING, 
PENNSYLVANIA” 


IN THE CouRT OF COMMON PLEAS OF ARMSTRONG 
County, PENNSYLVANIA 


No. 219, March Term, 1911 


AMENDED CHARTER OF THE First PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF 
KITTANNING, PENNSYLVANIA 


To the Honorable W. D. Patton, Judge of the Court of Common 
Pleas of the County of Armstrong: 


The petition of the First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, 
Pennsylvania, respectfully represents—That it is a corporation or 
body politic, for religious purposes, incorporated under the pro- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 17 
visions of an Act of Assembly of said Commonwealth entitled “An 
act relating to Orphans’ Courts and for other purposes,’ passed the 
13th day of October, 1840, and its supplements and that its char- 
ter was duly granted by the Court of Common Pleas of. said 
County of Armstrong on the 13 day of March, 1841, and its said 
charter of incorporation was subsequently amended by said Court 
on the 8th day of March, 1865, which original charter and amend- 
ment are recorded in the Recorder’s Office of said county in Deed 
Book Vol. 12, Page 630, and Deed Book Vol. 29, Page 397, re- 
spectively. That in compliance with the requirements of “the 
Act of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsyl- 
vania” entitled “An act to provide for the incorporation and 
regulation of certain corporations’ approved the 29th day of 
April, 1874, and the several supplements thereto, including an 
Act of Assembly approved the 14th day of April, A.D. 1905, the 
corporation is desirous of altering and amending its said charter 
in accordance with the act of the under-subscribers as 1ts Corpo- 
rate Officers and their associates, all of whom are citizens of Penn- 
sylvania, at a meeting of the said corporate body properly called 
and held to which the said amendments were duly submitted and 
acted upon by them and by the members of the congregation of 
said First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, Pennsylvania, 
duly announced and advertised according to law and the usage of 
the First Presbyterian Church held on the 25th day of January, 
1911, acted upon, adopted and ratified the following proposed 
changes therein and amended charter and desiring that the same 
shall be amended and be as follows: 


I. 


The name of the proposed corporation is “The First Presby- 
terian Church of Kittanning, Pennsylvania.” 


IT. 


The purpose of said corporation is the support and promotion 
of the worship of Almighty God according to the faith, doctrine, 
discipline and usages of the Presbyterian Church in the United 
States of America. 


18 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 
IIT. 


The business of said corporation is to be transacted in the 
Borough of Kittanning, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania. 


AY 


The corporation shall have perpetual succession by its corpo- 
rate name. 


IV: 


The said corporation shall have no capital stock. The mem- 
bership shall be composed of the subscribers and their associates 
and such other persons as may from time to time be admitted to 
membership in such manner and upon such requirements as may 
be prescribed by the By-Laws. The said corporation shall never- 
theless have full and ample power to exclude, expel or suspend 
members for such just and legal causes and in such legal manner as 
may be ordained and directed by the By-Laws and by the rules, 
regulations and usages of the said Presbyter1an Church. 


VI. 


The yearly income of said corporation other than that derived 
from real estate shall not exceed the sum of Fifteen Thousand 
Dollars. 

ASE 


The number of Trustees of said corporation is fixed at nine, a 
majority of whom shall be lay members to be elected in such 
manner and at such times as the By-Laws of said corporation 
shall provide, they shall, however, hold the office until their suc- 
cessors are legally elected and qualified, subject nevertheless to 
removal from office for just and legal cause as provided by the 
By-Laws. 

In the Board of Trustees shall be vested the care, control, 
oversight and management of the property and business of the 
corporations subject only to such control and disposition thereof 
as may be duly authorized by the lay members of said church, 
according to the rules thereof or the By-Laws. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 19 


The officers of said Board of Trustees for the present are as 
follows: 


James A. Gault, William Pollock, Willis D. Patton, Harry A. 
Arnold, Boyd S. Henry, Samuel H. McCain and E. E. Kinter. 


VIII. 


The said corporation shall have power to hold, purchase and 
transfer such real estate and personal estate and property as its 
purposes may require, not excluding the amount limited by law 
and all such property shall be taken in the name of the Trustees 
or their successors, and all property real or personal, belonging to 
said corporation or which shall hereafter be bequeathed, devised 
or conveyed to it shall not be otherwise taken, held or to enure 
than subject to the control and disposition of the lay members of 
said church, or such constituted officers or representatives thereof 
as shall be composed of the majority of lay members, citizens of 
Pennsylvania, having a controlling power, according to the rules, 
regulations, usages or corporate requirements thereof, so far as con- 
sistent herewith. 


IX. 


The By-Laws of this corporation shall be deemed and taken 
to be its laws, subordinate only to its charter the constitution and 
laws of the Commonwealth and those of the United States. Said 
By-Laws may be altered and amended from time to time in such 
manner as provided by said By-Laws themselves, and shall pre- 
scribe the powers and functions of the Trustees and their suc- 
cessors Other than is set forth in this charter. They shall also 
prescribe the qualifications and manner of admitting and receiving 
members and the election of such officers as may be deemed neces; 
sary and the powers and duties of such officials and all other things 
concerning the internal management and regulation of the said 
corporation. 

Your petitioners therefore pray your Honorable Court, to order 
and decree that the amendments above specified and set forth. in 
the above amended charter be approved and made the charter of 
said The First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, Pennsylvania. 


20 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


In Witness Whereof the corporate seal of the said corporation 
has been hereto affixed, duly attested this 9th day of February, 
ASD a9 il: 

W. PoLLock (Seal ) 
Vice-President of Board of 
Trustees of the First Presby- 
terian Church of Kittanning, 
Pennsylvania 
Harry A. ARNOLD (Seal) 
S. H. McCain, Epwin E. KINTER (Seal) 
Secretary Boyp S. HENRY (Seal) 


Attest: 


State of Pennsylvania, \ 
County of Armstrong, f , 

Before me the subscriber, a Notary Public, in and for said 
County and State, personally appeared Wm. Pollock, H. A. 
Arnold and E. E. Kinter, three of the subscribers to the above 
and foregoing amended charter of The First Presbyterian Church 
of Kittanning, Pennsylvania, and in due form of law acknowl- 
edged the same to be their act and deed. 

Witness my hand and notarial seal this 11th day of February, 
ae 1B IMAGE 

Boyp S. HENRY (Seal) 
Notary Public 
My Commission Expires March 25, 1911 


Interlocutory Decree 


And now to-wit; the 14th day of February, A. D., 1911, the 
within petition having been presented and read and it appearing 
to the Court that the alterations and amended charter as therein 
prayed for are lawful and beneficial and not in conflict with the 
requirements of the Constitution or laws of this Commonwealth it 
is therefore ordered that the same be filed and that notice of the 
pending application be given according to the provisions of the 
third Section of the Act to provide for the incorporation and regu- 
lation of certain corporations approved April 29, 1874, and its sup- 
plements. 

W. D. PaTTon, 
Judge 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 4 
Final Decree 


And now to-wit, this 20th day of March, 1911, the within 
Certificate of Amended Charter having been presented and _ it 
appearing to the Court that the former order of the Court hereto- 
fore made in the premises has been duly complied with, it is 
therefore ordered and decreed that upon the recording of said 
Certificate with proof of publication of notice pending application, 
the alterations and amended charter as within prayed for be allow- 
ed and be deemed and taken to be the charter of said corporation 
as therein amended. 

[Da kHEs COURT. 


Recorded March 29, 1911. 


Constitution and By-Laws 


OF 


The First Presbyterian Church 


ApopTepD FEBRUARY I, 1911 


Seo< eos 


Preamble 


Inasmuch as the Lord’s House is a house of order, the follow- 
ing Constitution and By-Laws are adopted for the government 
of the First Presbyterian Church. 


Article I. 
NAME AND DESIGN 


Section I—Name. This Society: shall be known as the First 
Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, Pennsylvania, under the care 
and subject to the jurisdiction of the Presbytery of Kittanning. 


Section 2—Design. Avowing its design and aim to be the 
promotion of pure religion in the preservation of sound doctrine 
and good church order, it hereby declares its acceptance of the 
doctrines and policy as set forth in the Confession of Faith, the 
Form of Government, the Book of Discipline, and the Directory 
for Worship of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of 
America. 


Section 3—Official Boards. The Official Boards of this Church 
shall be—The Session, the Board of Deacons, the Board of Trus- 
Lees. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 23 


Article I. 


OF THE SESSION 


Section 1—-Members and Meetings. The Session shall consist 
of the Pastor and Ruling Elders of this particular church, who 
shall exercise the powers, perform the duties; and conform to the 
provisions of the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church. 

Its meetings shall be held monthly or whenever regularly called. 


Section 2—Powers of the Session. To the Session shall per- 
tain the ordering and regulation of public worship, including the 
music, and the use and occupancy of the church edifice, and all its 
furnishings, and the times.and places of worship. 


Section 3—Powers of the Session, Continued. To the Session 
shall also pertain the oversight and control of the Sunday School, 
including the election or the approval of the election of its officers 
and teachers, selection of the books for the library, and the rules 
adopted for its government. 


Section +—Of the Sunday School. The Sunday School shall at 
least two weeks before the annual meeting in each year submit 
to the Session a report of its work. This report shall also include 
a statement of its receipts and expenditures to March 31, which 
with vouchers shall be examined by the auditors of the congrega- 
tion. 


Section 5—Of Societies. All societies formed within the con- 
geregation for the furtherance of church work shall be under the 
control of the Session, and such societies shall send to the Session 
at least two weeks before the annual meetings in each year an an- 
nual report of their work, such reports shall also include a state- 
ment of receipts and expenditures to March 31, which with vouch- 
ers shall be transmitted to the auditors for their examination. 


Section 6-—Of Benevolent Contributions. All Contributions 
however made for benevolent purposes, in connection with the 
boards of our General Assembly, together with contributions made 
for Presbyterial and Synodical uses, shall be under the control of, 
and be distributed by, the Session. 


Section 7—Reports of Boards and Societies. The Treasurer 
of the Session and also the Treasurer of the Board of Deacons 


24 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


shall, as soon as practicable after the 3lst of March, submit an 
annual report of their receipts and disbursements, with vouchers, 
to the auditors, together with reports and voucher received from 
all other societies in the church. 

After being so audited, they shall be returned to the Session, 
who shall present them, together with reports provided for in 
Section 5, to the annual meeting of the congregation. 


Article III. 
ELECTIONS 


Section 1—Election of Pastors. In the election of a pastor, 
which shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the 
fifteenth chapter of the Form of Government, all communicants, 
together with those who regularly contribute to the support of the 
church, shall be entitled to vote. 


Section 2—Election of Elders and Deacons. In the election of 
Ruling Elders and Deacons, communicants only shall be entitled 
to vote. Ruling Elders and Deacons shall be elected at the annual 
congregational meeting according to the rotary system, for a term 
of three years, without nominations and those receiving the highest 
number of votes respectively shall be declared elected. The elec- 
tion shall be by ballot. 


Section 3—Duties of Deacons. To the Deacons shall belong 
the oversight and control of funds collected for the poor. They 
shall appoint other suitable persons to act with them as a Board of 
Ushers, to which board shall pertain the duty of receiving the 
offerings of the congregation when assembled for worship. 


Article IV. 
Or THE CONGREGATION 


Section 1—Objects. The organization of this congregation is 
understood and declared to be incidental to, and in furtherance of 
the purposes and ends of the organization of the First Presbyterian 
Church, of Kittanning, Pennsylvania. 


History of First Presbvterian Church of Kittanning 25 


Section 2—Members of the Congregation. The members of 
this congregation shall consist of the communicants of the church 
and all others who contribute regularly to the current expenses of 
the congregation, if not in arrears for more than six months. The 
said current expenses shall be met by voluntary contributions. 


Section 3—Church Year. The Church Year shall begin April 
first and end March thirty-first. | 


Section 4—Officers of the Congregation. The officers of this 
congregation shall be a President, a Secretary, a Treasurer, three 
Auditors, and nine Trustees. 


Section 5-—Elections. The President, Secretary, Treasurer, 
and Auditors shall be elected at each annual meeting of the con- 
eregation, to be held on the third Wednesday in April, who shall 
serve for one year or until their successors shall be elected. At 
this meeting also three of the nine trustees shall be elected, who 
shall serve three years each and until their successors shall be 
elected. The election of these officers shall be by ballot, without 
nomination. Those receiving the highest number of votes re- 
spectively shall be declared elected. Provided, however, that at 
the first election after the adoption of this Constitution nine 
Trustees shall be elected on the rotary system. 


Section 6—Duty of the President. It shall be the duty of the 
President to preside at all meetings of the congregation, but in his 
absence a temporary presiding officer may be chosen. But at a 
meeting convened for the election of Elders and Deacons, the 
Pastor ex-officio shall preside. 


Section 7—Duties of the Secretary. The duties of the Secre- 
tary of the congregation shall be to keep a record of all the meet- 
ings of the congregation, and when approved to engross the same 
in a permanent form, to give notices of meetings when called, and 
to perform, generally, any duty pertaining to his office. To him 
also shall belong the custody of all records and accounts of the con- 
eregation. 


Section 8—-Duties of the Treasurer. It shall be the duty of the 
Treasurer to keep an account book, which shall be the property 
of the congregation, and open at all times to the Trustees; to re- 


26 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ceive all moneys belonging to the congregation, and promptly dis- 
burse the same on the written order of the Board of Trustees; and 
without such written order no money shall be paid by him except 
for salaries regularly authorized, temporary pulpit supplies ap- 
pointed by the Session, and ordinary incidental expenses incurred 
in the care and repairs of the church edifice. He shall, when 
practicable, confer with the Board of Trustees at its quarterly 
meetings, as to the condition of the finances of the congregation. 

He shall also present to the Board of Trustees a detailed state- 
ment of his accounts and vouchers at its regular meeting next 
preceding the annual meeting of the congregation, and also at 
such other times as the Board may direct. And for the faithful 
discharge of his duties he shall give bonds in such sum as _ the 
Board of Trustees may direct and approve. 


Section 9—Duty of the Auditors. It shall be the duty of the 
Auditors to carefully examine all reports and records submitted 
to them, and make a report of the same to the congregation at its 
annual meeting. 


Section 10—Duties of Trustees. It shall be the duty of the 
Trustees to hold title of all real estate, to care for the property, 
seeing that it is in order, lighted and heated for Divine Worship 
and all other meetings, and to manage the financial affairs of the 
congregation. 

Expenses shall not be incurred by them amounting in_ the 
ageregate to more than One Thousand Dollars in any one year, 
without consent of congregation. Nor shall they convey mort- 
gage, Or In any way encumber the title to any real estate or per- 
sonal property held by them in trust for the congregation unless 
with the consent and approval of two-thirds of the congregation 
present at a meeting of the congregation regularly called by the 
Session, and of which due notice was given on two consecutive 
Sundays next preceding the meeting, stating specifically the ob- 
ject of the meeting. 


Section 11—Meetings of Trustees. The Trustees shall meet 
for the transaction of business on the first Tuesday in the months 
of January, April. July and October, or at the call of the President 
of the Board. 

They shall carefully examine and have audited the accounts 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning Z1 


and vouchers of the Treasurer, and present at each annual meet- 
ing of the congregation a statement of the receipts and expendi- 
tures of the preceding year. They after conferring with the Ses- 
sion, shall make an estimate of the amount required for the ensuing 
year, and present the same at each congregational meeting. 


Section 12—Special Meetings. Special meetings of the con- 
gregation may be called by the Session, or at the written request 
to it by the Trustees, notice of which meetings shall be given from 
the pulpit on the Sunday preceding, stating specifically the busi- 
ness.to be transacted, and no other business shall be transacted at 
such meeting. 


Section 13-—Quorum of Meetings. Tn all meetings of the con- 
gregation a quorum shall consist of sixty members. If a quorum 
be not assembled at the time appointed, any two members shall 
be competent to adjourn from time to time, that an opportunity 
may be given for a quorum to assemble. All meetings of the 
congregation shall be opened and closed with prayer, except when 
immediately following a religious service, when the opening 
prayer may be omitted. 


Article V. 
ALTERATIONS AND AMENDMENTS 


The Constitution and By-Laws may be altered or amended at 
any regular meeting, two-thirds of the congregation present con- 
curring: Provided, notice of such alterations or amendments to 
be proposed shall have been given from the pulpit on two con- 
secutive Sundays next preceding the meeting. 


History of the 
First Presbyterian Church 
of Kittanning 


030) > 0-0-2 (030 


By Rev. T. D. Ewinc—June, 1877 


It is greatly to be regretted that the early history of many of 
the oldest churches in Western Pennsylvania cannot be written in 
detail. The principal reasons that hinder the perfecting of such 
a history at the present day may be reduced to three. 


First—The Presbytery seems to have made no record of the 
previous steps taken for the securing of oraginzations; indeed there 
is no record of the organization of any church on the minutes of 
Redstone Presbytery until about the year 1830. 

It would seem that the organization of a church was not con- 
sidered a matter of sufficient importance by Redstone Presbytery 
for a record to be made of it. 


Second—The minutes which the Sessions have kept are in 
many cases the merest outline of the existence and growth of a 
church, and in some cases the records which the Sessions attempted 
to keep have been in whole or in part lost—leaving but a frag- 
mentary history of their own existence. . 


Third—The generation then living and laboring in and for the 
church has so nearly passed away that it 1s impossible to secure a 
full verbal history of the church at that early day. 

And yet there are many facts that can be gathered from all 
these sources, viz: the records of the Presbytery—the minutes of 
Sessions and the verbal statements of the few who still remain, 
and were then active in the interests of the church. From these 
sources a history may be written correct in every particular given 
and yet, not complete on account of the fragmentary material from 
which it must be gathered. 

In attempting to write a history of the “First Presbyterian 
Church in Kittanning” it is my purpose to gather from the sources 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 29 





named such facts as | may be able to combine, then and thus to 
form a history of this church, correct insofar as it goes, and yet 
necessarily incomplete, because much of the material necessary for 
writing a complete history is not within my reach. 





REVeeLe Oe EWING UAL). 


The “Congregation” of Kittanning made application to the 
Presbytery of Redstone in April, 1806, for supplies. In answer 
to the application the Rev. Mr. Henderson was appointed to preach 
in Kittanning the second Sabbath of June, 1806. This—as far as 
the record shows—was the first sermon ever preached in Kittan- 





30 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ning by a Presbyterian minister. At this time there was no church 
organization in Kittanning and therefore by the “Congrégation” 
we must understand those persons then living here who were mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church in other places or whose preference 
was for the Presbyterian Church. 

These united in a petition to Presbytery for a minister to 
preach occasionally in Kittanning. Doubtless the Presbytery 
then (in 1806) regarded Kittanning as missionary territory—a 
point at which in time a church might be organized. 

From 1806 to 1822—about 16 years—supplies were more or 
less regularly sent by the Presbytery to preach at Kittanning. 
The minutes of Redstone Presbytery show that then supplies were 
sent two, three, four and five times a year. If there were preach- 
ing services in Kittanning more frequently than this by Presby- 
terian ministers—as 1n all probability there were, they must have 
been held by ministers who were appointed to supply two or three 
days at discretion between the meetings of Presbytery. 

I find such a minute as the following in the records of Redstone 
Presbytery: “Mr. A. appointed to preach two days at discretion 
between this and our next meeting of Presbytery.” 

The Presbytery met statedly twice a year. The “discretion” 
was as to both time and place, so that Kittanning may have had 
some preaching of which no record has been made. The names of 
those ministers appointed to preach in Kittanning may be given 
in the order in which they appear in the minutes, viz: 


Second Sabbath of June, 1806—Rev. Joseph Henderson. 

April, 1807—Rev. Mr. Porter—one day at discretion. 

April, 1809—Rev. Mr. Galbraith appointed to supply one day 
at discretion. 

April 17, 1810—Rev. Mr. Porter appointed to supply one day 
at discretion. 

April 21, 1812—Rev. Mr. Henderson, appointed to supply one 
day at discretion. : 

April 13, 1813—Rev. Robt. Lee appointed to supply one day 
at discretion. 

October, 1813—Rev. Mr. Porter appointed to supply one day 
at discretion. 

1814—Rev. Thomas Hunt to preach first Sabbath in September 
and one day at discretion. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 3] 


April, 18l14—Rev. Mr. Lee appointed to preach two Sabbaths 
at discretion. 

October, 1814+—Rev. Mr. Lee appointed to preach one Sabbath 
at discretion, making five appointments for the year 1814. 

April, 1815—The Congregation asked and obtained leave to 
apply to the Presbytery of Erie (the Allegheny River was the line 
between the Presbyteries of Erie and Redstone) for supplies, and 
the Rev. Mr. Lee was appointed to supply two Sabbaths at Kit- 
tanning. 

April, 1816—Rev. Mr. Lee was appointed to preach two Sab- 
baths at Kittanning. 

October, 1816—Rev. J. Stockton appointed to preach one day 
at Kittanning. 

April, 1818—Rev. James Graham appointed to preach one day 
at Kittanning. 

October, 1818—Rev. Robert Lee appointed to preach one day 
at Kittanning. 

October, 1818—Rev. James Coe appointed to preach one day at 
Kittanning. 

October, 1818—Rev. Joseph Henderson appointed to preach 
one day at Kittanning. 

October, 1818—Rev. Robt. Lee appointed to preach one day at 
Kittanning. So that in 1818 five appointments have been made 
for Kittanning. 

October, 1819—Rev. Robert Lee appointed for the 5th Sab- 
bath of October. 

April, 1821—Rev. John Reed appointed for one Sabbath at 
discretion. 

April, 1822—Rev. David Barclay was appointed to preach in 
Kittanning at discretion. Also Mr. Thomas Davis, a licentiate of 
the Presbytery was appointed to preach in Kittanning on the 5th 
Sabbath of May, 1822. 


On Saturday, the 3Ist day of August, 1822, after a sermon by 
Mr. Davis, “The First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning” was 
organized by Rev. Andrews and Mr. Thomas Davis. These ser- 
vices were held in the Court House on the corner of Market and 
Jefferson Streets. The organization consisted of 22 members, 11 
being received upon examination and II upon certificate. Those 
received upon examination were the following: 


oh History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


THoMasS HAMILTON Mary Patrick 
JOHN PATRICK BARBARA PATRICK 
SAMUEL MATTHEWS ANNA PATRICK 
JAMES MONTEITH Davip MAXWELL 
PHEBE B. BROWN Mary MATTHEWS 


Lyp1A RoBINSON 


Those received on certificate were as follows: 


Davip JOHNSTON Mrs. PATTON 
SUSANNAH JOHNSTON SARAH FHIARRISON 
SAMUEL McMastTErRs Mary RosiNson 
SUSANNAH McMAsrTErs Mrs. CouLTER 
AGNESS ROBINSON Maria McKEE 


Mary JOHNSTON 
(Please notice that Agness Robinson’s name appears on this list.) 


At a meteing of the Congregation held the same day that the 
church was organized, August 31, 1822, the following persons 
were elected and having signified their acceptance were ordained 
and installed ruling elders in this church, viz: David Johnston, 
Thomas Hamilton and John Patrick—and the first observance of 
the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was on Sabbath first day of 
September, 1822. 

At a meeting of the Presbytery of Redstone October, 1822, a 
“call” was presented from the church of Kittanning to Mr. 
Thomas Davis, promising him $200 per annum for one-half of 
his time. But at the same time “‘calls” were presented to Mr. 
Davis, for all his time, from the churches of New Salem and West 
Union, Westmoreland County, Pa. He accepted the latter and 
consequently declined to come to Kittanning. At the same meet- 
ing of Presbytery, Rev. Mr. Davis was appointed to preach in 
Kittanning the first Sabbath of November and Rev. David Bar- 
clay the first Sabbath of December and so alternate until the 
next meeting of Presbytery so that the church would have preach- 
ing regularly once a month. 

September 6th, 1823, the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper was 
administered by Rev. Mr. Davis. 

At this Communion season seven were received into the church 
—siX upon examination and one upon certificate. The church 
then numbered 27 members. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 32 


The first statistical report seems to have been made to Pres- 
bytery April 20, 1824, and is as follows: Membership 27, adults 
baptized 4, infants baptized 10. Contributed to missionary funds 
$4.00, to commissioners fund $4.00, to education $20. 

A communion service was held in September, 1824, at which 
were present three ministers—Revs. Nathaniel R. Snowden, Jesse 
Smith and John Reed. At this time five members were received. 

A request was presented by this church to the Presbytery, 
April, 1825, for the ministerial labors of Rev. Nathaniel Snowden 
for two-thirds of his time as Stated Supply for two years time, to 
date from January Ist, 1825. This request was granted and Mr. 
Snowden was Stated Supply for this church for the years 1825, 
1826 and part of 1827 when charges of a serious nature were 
preferred against him. Sometime near the latter part of 1827 or 
the beginning of 1828 he ceased his ministrations to this church. 

At a Communion season, August, 1825, thirteen members were 
received into the church. The statistical report to Presbytery, 
April, 1826, is as follows: Total membership 40, missionary 
funds $2.00, education $3.00. 

April 26, 1826, the little church met with a great loss in the 
death of one of its elders—Mr. John Patrick. November 11, 1826, 
Mr. Samuel Matthews was elected ruling elder but he was called 
to his rest in April 27 and was never installed. 

From April, 1828, to June, 1830, this church was supplied by 
appointments by Presbytery. The names of those supplying 
were Revs. Thomas Davis, Nathaniel Snowden and Elisha D. 
Barrett. 

The first meeting of Presbytery ever held in Kittanning con- 
vened December |, 1829. It met for the purpose of trying Rev. 
Mr. Snowden on charges which were preferred against him touch- 
ing his standing as a Minister of Christ. 

Mr. Snowden was found guilty and suspended from the min- 
istry until in the judgment of the Presbytery the way be found 
clear for his restoration. (The charge was “indulging too freely 
in alcoholic liquors. ) 

On October 5, 1830, Mr. Snowden was restored upon confes- 
sion of and repentance for his sin. 

In April, 1829, the church reported 47 members. In June, 
1830, a “call’’ was presented to Presbytery by the church of Kit- 


34 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


tanning for the ministerial labors of Mr. James Campbell, a 
licentiate of the Presbytery of New Brunswick. This “‘call” was 
for three-fourths of his time, promising him $300. per annum; 
also one from Crooked Creek was presented at the same time for 
one-fourth of Mr. Campbell’s time at $100. per annum. 

Mr..Campbell accepted the “call” .and Presbytery. met in 
Kittanning August 11, 1830, to ordain and install him pastor of 
the church in Kittanning. Rev. Samuel McFarron preached the 
sermon. Rev. Thomas Davis presided and delivered one of the 
charges. There is no record as to the minister who gave the other 
charges. . So the first pastor of this church was Rev. James Camp- 
bell. 

April, 1831, the church reported only 24 members. 

October 4th, 1831—Mr. Campbell resigned his pastoral charge, 
therefore he was pastor over this church only a little more than 
one year. Mr. Campbell was a man of a high type of piety— 
earnest and faithful in Christian work. Why he made so short a 
stay in Kittanning does not appear from any records in my pos- 
session. Mrs. Campbell has the honor of having organized the 
first ladies’ prayer meeting ever in existence in Kittanning. This 
prayer meeting was carried forward successfully for six months. 

Mr. Campbell died in 1877 in the city of New Orleans. 

From October, 1831, to April, 1834, this church was again de- 
pendent upon supplies approved by Presbytery—TI he names of the 
ministers appointed at different times as they appear on the min- 
utes; ol the) Presbytery, wereahevse David oewls tL. Wy sb danheus 
John Reed, Thomas Davis and Mr. Montgomery. 

In April, 1834, the church reported 32 members. Also the 
death of one elder—Thomas Hamilton, leaving the church with 
but one elder—David Johnston. 

Rev. Joseph Painter commenced his labors here on the second 
Sabbath of April, 1834. He had visited Kittanning in the Fall of 
1833, spent two Sabbaths and preached three sermons and then 
returned to his home in Northumberland County, Pa. He was 
then formally called to Kittanning and returned in the spring of 
1834. Mr. Painter was installed pastor of this church November 
14, 1834. At this installation, Rev. Elisha Barrett preached the 
sermon. Rev. Robert Johnson presided and delivered the charge 
to the pastor and Rev. David Lewis to the people. The “‘call’’ was 
for two-thirds of his time, salary $333.33 1/3. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 39 


At a communion season in June, 1834—the first after Mr. 
Painter's arrival and before his installation as pastor—22 persons 
were received into full membership. On the same day that Mr. 
Painter was installed pastor, Mr. Hamlet Totten was ordained 
ruling elder in this church. 

From this point for sake of convenience we will group this 
history into decades. We turn therefore to the report .of January, 
1844. The membership then is 92. During those ten years three 
additional elders have been ordained and installed. June 14, 1839, 
Chas. Montgomery and John Hood and on August I, 1841, A. L. 
Robinson. Also on that day Alexander Colwell and J. R. John- 
ston were set apart as deacons. 250 were given to all the bene- 
volent works of the church. 

The report of 1854 presents a membership of 111. The amount 
contributed from 1844 to 1854 to Boards of Church is $531. Two 
additional elders have been installed—April 26, 1850, Mr. James 
Patrick and Mr. S. S. White. During these ten years 107 mem- 
bers have been received. 

The report shows a membership of 146. Funds to the Boards 
of the Church from 1854 to 1864 are $1,573. Five additional 
elders were installed. Fourth Sabbath of August, 1856, James 
Quigley, and on the 8th day of March, 1860, John Robinson, P. 
Kk. Bowman, Marcus Hulings and J. B. Finlay. 

In the spring and summer of 1860 Rev. Geo. P. Hays associated 
with Dr. Painter and in the fall of that year a “call” was pre- 
sented to Mr. Hays to become co-pastor with Dr. Painter. This 
call, however, was declined. An unusual degree of prosperity 
seems to have attended the church during 1860 as 35 persons were 
received into the church during that year. From 1854 to 1864 
152 members were received. 

On the first of April, 1864, there had been received into this 
church since its organization, 427 members, 146 of whom were in 
communion with the church April 1, 1864. Rev. T. D. Ewing 
preached first in Kittanning January 17, 1864, (then being a stud- 
ent in the Western Theological Seminary and member of the 
Senior class). Upon invitation from the Session, Mr. Ewing 
preached every alternate Sabbath with two or. three exceptions 
until the first of April, 1864. Having preached five Sabbaths a 
“call” was prepared by the congregation, inviting Mr. Ewing to 


30 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


become co-pastor with Dr. Painter. This “‘call” was moderated 
by Rev. S. J. Wilson, D.D., April 4, 1864, promising to pay a 
salary of $800. It should here be noticed that the congregation 
had entered into an agreement to pay to the senior pastor, Dr. 
Painter, his full salary of $500 during his life. 

This “‘call’’ to Mr. Ewing was presented at a meeting of Pres- 
bytery of Saltsburg held at Glade Run, April, 1864, and accepted 
May 10, 1864. Presbytery met at Kittanning when the following 
order was observed in the ordination and installation services. 

Rev. Wm. M. Paxton, D. D., then pastor of the First Presby- 
terian Church of Pittsburgh, preached the sermon. Text Ps. 
118:25, “Save now, I beseech Thee, O Lord; O Lord, | beseech 
Thee, send now prosperity!” 

The Moderator, Rev. D. W. Townsend, presided and proposed 
the constitutional questions. Dr. Painter offered prayer. Dr. 
Donaldson delivered the charge to the pastor and Dr. Woodend 
the charge to the congregation and on the evening of the same 
day, Rev. A. McElwain preached a sermon on “Presbyterianism.’ 

From this time, on account of the increasing infirmities of 
years, Dr. Painter retired from the active duties of the pastorate. 
He continued to preach occasionally for five or six years when 
failing strength compelled him to cease taking any part in public 
services. 

The year following was one of marked prosperity in the church 
and congregation. 54 members were received. 13 upon certifi- 
cate and 4] upon examination. During the decade from 1864 to 

~ 1874 267 members were received. 134 upon certificate and 133 
upon profession of faith. $12,063 were contributed to the Boards 
——_ of the Church. 

April, 1867, the pastor’s salary was increased to $1,200. On 
the 20th of September, 1868, Col. J. G. Parr and J. E. Brown 
were ordained and installed ruling elders; also on the 6th of 
November, 1869, Wm. H. Jack was ordained and installed. The 
report of April, 1874, shows a membership of 275. 

Sabbath morning, June 1, 1873, the senior Pastor, Dr. Painter, 
was called to his rest. And as the history of this church is so 
intimately and indissolubly connected with the life and labors of 
Dr. Painter, | will enclose in sending this history to the Historical 
Society a copy of the Memorial Sermon of Dr. Painter preached 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning oH 


November 16, 1873, and direct that the sermon be filed with the 
history of the church. Short of this would not do justice to the 
memory of Dr. Painter. 

About the first of November, 1873, the ladies of this church 
organized a “Woman’s Missionary Society.” This society has 
been remarkably successful in its work. It has supported a for- 
elgn missionary paying the full salary of $450 and has been in- 
strumental in awakening a more general interest throughout the 
congregation in the cause of missions. On the 10th of November, 
1874, a Woman’s Prayer meeting was organized in connection 
with the Missionary Society. 

This prayer meeting has been carried on with a good degree 
of success and has proved a great blessing to the church. The 
Young Men’s Prayer meeting organized November 10, 1873, also 
deserves special notice as having done a great and good work in 
the church. 

In 1874 the salary of the pastor was raised to $2,000. The 
history of this church from 1874 to 1877 may be given best by 
quoting from the yearly “Narrative of Religion,” which is on 
record on the minutes of the Session. The narrative of 1875 
speaks of the growth and condition of the church as follows: 
“The ingathering from the world has not been as large as form- 
erly and yet we believe that there has been more Christian work 
done by the congregation than in any previous year; there has 
been an increased willingness on the part of many in the congrega- 
tion to engage in Christian work. Here special mention 1s made 
of the women of the congregation. Whilst they have supported a 
missionary on the foreign field they have also made a_ noble 
record in working for the poor and suffering in our own land and 
especially in our own town and community. 

The weekly prayer meeting, the woman’s prayer neering and 
the young men’s prayer meeting were all enjoying a good degree 
of prosperity. The contributions to the Boards of the Church 
notwithstanding the financial crisis were about the same as the 
previous year. 

Fourteen members were added to the church, $1,568 were con- 
tributed to the benevolent work of the church. 

The narrative of the year ending April, 1876, is full of interest 
and is the briefest possible religious history of that year. It 1s as 


38 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


follows: “The Lord has done great things for us whereof we are 
elad.”’ 

The year has been crowned with loving kindness and tender 
mercies. In answer to the prayers of his people God has poured 
out his spirit upon us and revived us. The interest began some 
time in October in the woman’s prayer meeting and at the same 
time in the young men’s prayer meeting. There was a marked 
increase in the interest in the congregation following immediately 
upon conventions for Christian Work, held at Crooked Creek and 
Slatelick. This interest continued until the “Week of Prayer” 
when we as a church and people were permitted to rejoice in the 
manifest presence of the Spirit of God. The services were con- 
tinued with but an occasional omission until the middle of March. 


There have been added to the church 78 members, 19 on certifi- 
cate and 59 on profession of faith. 25 are heads of families and 
10 were baptized. ‘They were of all ages, from the little girl of ten 
to the old man of almost three score and ten. 


Six prayer meetings are being carried on within the bounds of 
the congregation. ~The Woman’s Missionary Society is going for- 
ward with its work steadily and successfully. When you inquire 
of us “Watchmen what of the night?” with hearts overflowing with 
gratitude we respond, “The morning seems to dawn.” Contribu- 
tions during this year to the benevolent work of the church were 
$1,322. | | 

The narrative of the year ending April, 1877, makes mention 
of about the usual degree of interest in the social and public wor- 
ship of God during the year. A slight falling off in contributions 
to the benevolent work of the church but reference is made to the 
special interest in the cause of temperance in the town and church. 
Twenty-two members were received during the year and $1,248 
contributed to our Boards. From 1874 to 1877, 114 members 
were added to the church. The membership of the church April, 
1877, 324. Since the organization of this church 807 members 
have been received. Three additional ruling elders were ordained 
and installed February 11, 1877, viz: James Martin, Geo. W. 
Doverspike and R. S. Slaymaker. 

Such is a brief history of the pulpit and growth of the First 
Presbyterian Church in Kittanning up to April, 1877. (I have 
left the Sabbath School—also the different church buildings for a 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 39 


separate history to be prepared at another time.) This history 
shows that whilst this church in an existence of 55 years has only 
been permitted to enjoy one general revival of religion, when it 
could truly be said “that times of refreshing came from _ the 
presence of the Lord,” yet it has been blessed with a steady growth 
from its organization to the present time. Almost every year its 
history has added to its numbers and strength. 


Thirteen years have passed since the installation of the present 
pastor. Thirteen years is no small part of this brief life and in a 
Christian’s life it ought to show much done in the Master’s vine- 
yard. These years have wrought many changes in this congre- 
gation. Some 60 have passed over the river of Death. Many 
have removed to other churches and their places are occupied by 
others. Thirteen years has lifted a whole generation to manhood 
and womanhood. It has forced many of us, who then felt that 
we were youthful, well into middle life. 


We realize today that much of the battle of life is past and 
it has silently, but surely passed others over the meridian of life, 
so that they must today admit that they are passing down the 
western slope; and how many others has it carried to the very 
verge of life, leaving them today beyond the three-score years and 
ten, to contemplate the race as almost run, waiting, as it were at 
the river for the summons to pass over. 


The “First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning” is today strong 
in numbers: (324 members) and in resources. God grant that each 
one in his different relation’ and position may be a worker in the 
vineyard so that the Master when he comes at any time to us say- 
ing “What doest thou here’’’—with the consciousness of having 
His work upon our hearts and in our hands, we can answer and 
not stand speechless before Him. May the loving kindness of God 
to us as a church in the past constrain us all to a greater diligence 
in the future. 


Since Mr. Ewing’s history of the church 1s so complete it 1s 
not necessary to go over any of the ground which he has already 
traveled and taken us with him. From April, 1877, to April, 1884, 
the minutes record little except statistical reports and the annual 
“Narrative of Religion” which goes to Presbytery. These are 


40) History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


much the same from year to year; additions to the church and 
contributions to benevolences fluctuating according to spiritual 
conditions. For the benefit of any who may never have seen any 
of these reports a “sample” of each is given. 


Narrative for the Year Ending April 1, 1885 


jf. 


‘TPORIGS 


PuBLic WorSsHIP 


Question 
Answer 
OF 2 
A. 

QO. 3 
A. 

Q. + 
A. 

QO. 5 
A. 

Q. 6 
A. 

©: ii 
A. 

QO. 8 
A. 


To what extent has the congregation 
been supplied with preaching during 
the yearr 

Preaching all the year. 


What have been the relative attend- 
ance and interest? 
Attendance and interest good. 


Is there any considerable non- 
church going within your bounds? 
VESS: 


Is there any noticeable neglect on the 
part of church members? 
Some who neglect. 


What proportion of the children and 
youth of the congregation habitually 
attend public service? 

A large proportion. 


Have you a Sabbath School? 
Yes. 


How many months of the year has 
it been open? If not the whole year 
why not? 

12 months. 


What proportion of the children and 
young people of the congregation is 
in attendance? 

A large majority or nearly all. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 4] 


AK Aa) Se 
MEETINGS 


BENEVOLENCES 


WOMAN’S 
WORK 


O. 


(© 


1 > 


ee el ee 


2 


What proportion of the adults is in 
attendancer 
A good proportion. 


What lesson helps and other appli- 
ances are used? Give names. 
Westsiinster Question Book and 
leaves, Westminster Teacher. Two 
large wall maps. 


Have you a weekly prayer meeting? 
Yes. 


What proportion of the members of 
the church attend it? 
One-third. 


Are there any other stated meetings 
for prayer? 

Young men’s, young ladies’ and 
ladies’ prayer meetings. 


Is there any noticeable growth in the 
spirit of benevolences as indicated 
in the readiness of the people to con- 
tribute of their means to the Lord’s 
cause at home or abroad? 

Ys: 


In what way are the collections for 
the Boards of the Church taken? 
Every Sabbath . 


Are collections taken regularly in the 
Sabbath School and if so for what 
purpose r 

Yes, chiefly for Missions. 


How many and what ladies’ socie- 
ties have you for the furtherance of 
special branches of Christian work? 
And in what state of efficiency are 
they? 

Three—Foreign, Home and Pastor’s 
Aid all in a good state of efficiency. 


42 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


FAMILY 
WORSHIP 


CATECHISM 


RELIGIOUS 


PAPERS 


REVIVALS 


MORALS 


DISGIPLINE 


Q. 


0 


(© 


0 


BIO PIO > 


18 


bo 
bo 


26 


In how many families of the con- 
eregation, relative to the whole 
number, is family worship main- 
tained? 

No basis for information. 


Is the Shorter Catechism taught and 
if so, to what extent and how? 
Yes, in Sunday School and home. 


In how many families of the con- 
eregation, relative to the whole num- 
ber, is any religious paper of the 
Presbyterian Church taken? 

A large majority. 


Has there been any unusual relig- 
10us interest in the congregation 
during the year? 

No unusual interest. 


Do intemperance, Sabbath breaking, 
profanity, card playing, dancing, or 
other special forms of evil prevail 
within your bounds? 

Yes. 


Are they increasing or diminishing? 
Some of these are on the increase. 


Do they invade the church? 


Some do invade the church to some 
extent. 


Has the Session endeavored accord- 
ing to the spirit of our system to 
exercise due oversight, control and 
discipline during the year? 

yes 


Has actual process been found 
necessary? 
No. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 43 
ANNUAL REPORT TO PRESBYTERY 
April, 1885 


NUETHDEITS*aAGGeC ONseRAILITALIOU seme etn 8s ee ee ee oe 14 


Vier berssaddedom Certiticates ee te ee ae 15 

WW HOLGEN UT Sl aeeemeeme eee celts tnt Seta ay eee ia ee. 350 
PNCULLSE OAD CIZGCL ion cummet a Comer eee Roe eae Cr se oe 5 
Feri Pom TILL ZC Cie ere eee ey ge, et roa tt kane. A Ge a 22 
Sas eviembers.- 25. TAP ME Oy iaek Saat be rece 2 se eens e aon kh 450 


I CIIITOMAIVISSSTON Sister’ er sheet tape ae aN PE) So Tht ee ee $ 255.00 
POLELO Ta VISSIONS ge ria: .cc iy, cote pete Je eels se baie ae 621.00 
“HOLLER (0) a oe septa Sy ie a tole kee leona Nl 55.00 
PED oi wPeee CO) NY pean ote See Sie, il ans al ma te he ln 8 es ae A 25.00 
COMIN Lime FCCtION a, aitet ences wee arr gy wee 3, eT peak Onn, 220.00 
LA SDNTSRY STOP RUG eek eerie wl NP ar Og ah eR ge ON RIE ee RR 110.00 
LOCO IG Nae te ee nn Pe ee one ei wa a tees SOS 181.00 
tm Olas COMEDIES: <= ee. ae agen e hw GA Sr ae 12.00 
SSULSTCTH Cal CLOT Wiese teen rd weer kote OO Ce Ee Ni 10.00 
TENET TIA SSEINID | Vuen oes fe ee ee ee sone TN Re te ee 30.00 
GUO he Cation meee ere ee Ye eer gee ater tac ies 2 Oe OU 
MIScelPancOU Steet heme ae ecu ee Nene eee ee a St 599.00 


pastors 


fo) 0m em 0f9 


The First Pastor 


REV. JAMES CAMPBELL 
1830—1831 


The first pastor of this church was Rev. James Campbell but 
so little is known of him or his work that it seems as though he 
had not been here. The first house of worship was built during his 
pastorate. 


The Second Pastor 


REV. JOSEPH PAINTER, D.D. 
1834—1864 


The church was without a pastor for three years until Rev. 
Joseph Painter arrived on the scene. He came here a widower 
with two sons and two daughters. His deceased wife’s sister, Miss 
Elizabeth Vredenburgh, lived with them for a time. She after- 
wards became the wife of Rev. John E. Freeman and they went as 
missionaries to India. Both were murdered in the Sepoy mutiny 
of 1857. 

Mr. Painter’s first wife’s children have all passed on. The 
eldest son entered the ministry. He was Rev. Henry M. Painter 
and located in the South. Mr. Painter’s second wife was Miss 
Mary Ann Irvin of Pittsburgh. Three of their children are living 
—Mrs. Annie Brown and Mrs. Mary Gates of Los Angeles, and 
Joseph Painter of Pittsburgh. Mr. Painter was installed pastor of 
this church by Blairsville Presbytery in November, 1834. The de- 
gree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him by Jefferson 
College in June, 1858. He resigned the active pastorate when Mr. 
Ewing was set over the flock and the young pastor always showed 
him the respect due him. Sometimes the pastor emeritus 1s critica! 
and officious. Dr. Painter was neither. He gave advice but it 
was never unsought. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 45 


He was not old when he was taken away—only 74 but physical 
infirmities had aged him. With long, flowing white hair, touching 
his shoulders, he looked a veritable patriarch. In his late years 
he walked with a staff almost as tall as himself and this made him 
a conspicious figure when seen on the streets. 

His greatest handicap was almost total deafness. He went to 
church but did not hear a word. He sat in an armchair between 
the pulpit and the family pew. His daughter found the hymns 
and the text for him. He thought out a sermon and at home told 
what thought he had developed and asked if it corresponded with 
what the preacher had said. Dr. Painter died June 1, 1873. Mrs. 
Painter followed him in death January 27, 1885. 

The congregation made two unsuccessful efforts to secure an 
assistant to Dr. Painter. Calls were extended to Mr. Geo. P. Hays, 
who was a licentiate, and Rev. Philip H. Mowry, of Philadelphia, 
but both were declined. 


JOSEPH PAINTER 
BORN 
In Saulesbury Township, Bucks County,. Penn’a. 
May 2lst, 1799. 
GRADUATED 
At Union College, Schenectady, 
FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF JULY, 1822. 
| _ LICENSED TO PREACH 
| By the Presbytery of Northumberland, at Milton, Penn’a, 
Avucust 17TH, 1824. 
ORDAINED 
And Installed Pastor of the Lycoming Church, at Newburg, Pa., 
| ; NovEMBER 23p, 1825. 
REMOVED TO KITTANNING 
In April, 1534, and was installed Pastor of the First Presby- 
teri1an Church, in Kittanning, 
NovEMBER 14TH, 1834. 
RESIGNED 
The active duties of the Pastorate December, 1863, but. still 
sustained the relation of Co-pastor until his death. 
DIED 
SABBATH MORNING, JUNE Ist, 1873. 





46 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


MEMORIAL SERMON 


of the 
Rev. Joseph Painter, D. D. 


By Rev. T. D. Ewina, 


Pastor of the First Presbyterian 
Church, Kittanning 


~ Preached November 16th, 1873 


‘f, 


7 > 


i and 
me YY yyy / Y ~ = 2 
“Gy Yp, : Published By Request 


Us \ = y 


SS 7 





DEATH AND FUNERAL SERVICES 
REV ie | OSE ROGER NIE Leaps): 


Went home to his Father's House, Sabbath morning, June Ist, 
1873, in the 75th year of his age. 

The immediate cause of his death was a second, or, as some 
think, a third stroke of paralysis. He had been confined to his 
room almost wholly for the past year, but no immediate danger 
was apprehended until about ten days before his death, when he 
was again attacked by paralysis. 

Then all felt that his time on earth was short, and as his phy- 
sician remarked: “It was the beginning of the end.” 

He lingered in great bodily suffering, for the most part wholly 
unconscious, until Sabbath morning, June Ist, when the time of 
his departure came, and the spirit went out from the old home- 
stead and up to its mansion in glory. 

ae Ses sy ee ee 
THE BUNERAL 

The funeral took place on Wednesday, June 4th, from the 
First Presbyterian Church. 

The bier was followed from his late residence by his bereaved 
family, all of whom were present at his death, accompanied by a 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 47 


number of ministers from the Presbytery of Kittanning, and all 
the ministers of the different denominations in the town, followed 
by a large company of friends. 

On reaching the church, which was tastefully draped in mourn- 
ing and hung with wreaths of beautiful flowers, the coffin was 
placed on the front of the platform of the pulpit, where his lifeless 
body, in silent eloquence, to a large congregation, preached the last 
and a most tender and touching sermon. 

His chair, in which for the last nine years he sat when able to 
be present at the house of God, was heavily draped in mourning, 
and hung upon it was a lovely wreath of tube roses, which seemed 
to say as plainly as words could express it: He is “not dead, but 
sleepeth.” “He that believeth in Christ Jesus, though he were 
dead, yet shall he live.” 

The funeral services were conducted under the direction of the 
Rev. T. D. Ewing, his co-pastor. The services were opened by 
singing the 624th hymn: “How blest the righteous when he dies,” 
&c. Scripture lessons were read by the Rev. Wm. Hilton, rector 
emeritus of the Episcopal Church. 

The funeral address was made by the Rev. Dr. Donaldson, of 
Eldersridge, who had been an old and greatly esteemed friend of 
the deceased, and a co-presbyter with him for more than thirty-five 
years. The address was a most tender and touching one; present- 
ing the prominent points in the character of the deceased, especially 
with reference to him as a preacher and a presbyter, and closing 
with some practical lessons to be drawn from such a life. The ad- 
dress was admirably adapted to comfort the sorrowing, and to stir 
deeply in the hearts of all an earnest desire to live a christian life. 

Prayer was offered by Rev. J. N. Dick, D. D., of the United 
Presbyterian Church. A hymn was then sung, closing the services 
at the church. 

The funeral procession then formed and proceeded to the 
cemetery. The places of business were all closed, and the large 
crowds of people that lined the streets told of the high regard that 
was entertained by all classes for the deceased. 

At the grave the body was committed to the earth with deep 
and solemn feeling, but in the assured hope of a glorious resur- 
rection. 

After the coffin had been lowered, the following passages of 
Scripture were repeated by the Rev. T. D. Ewing: 


“IT heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, write, Blessed 


48 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


are the dead which die in the Lord, from henceforth; yea, said the 
Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do 
follow them.” 

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe 
also in me. 

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if 1t were not so, 
I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 


“And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again 
and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be 
also.”’ 

“Tl am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, 
though he were dead, yet shall he live.” 

“We know that 1f our earthly house of this tabernacle were 
dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with 
hands, eternal in the heavens.” 

“I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning 
them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not even as others which 
have no hope. 

“For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so 
them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.” 

“Now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits 
of them that slept.” 

“Tt 1s sown in corruption, it 1s raised 1n incorruption; it is sown 
in dishonor, it 1s raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, It is raised 
in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. 
There is a natural body, and there 1s a spiritual body. And as we 
have borne the image of the earthly, we shall also bear the image 
of the heavenly. 

“We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 

“In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump; 
for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incor- 
ruptible, and we shall be changed. 

‘For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal 
must put on immortality. 

“So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and 
this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought 
to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in 
victory. 

“O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 49 


“The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. 
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory, through our 
Lord Jesus Christ.” 

The whole services were then closed with the benediction, by 
the Rev. G. A. Reichart, of the German Lutheran Church, the 
oldest pastor in Kittanning. 


KITTANNNG, Pa., Monday, 17th November, 1873. 
Rev. f=: D. EwInc; 


Dear Str: 

The undersigned having listened with 
great interest to your Memorial Sermon on the life and character 
of the late Dr. Joseph Painter, would respectfully request you to 
furnish them a copy for publication. 


[AS COLWELL: J. E. Brown 

i CaM cCuLLocHs P. K. BOwMAN 
EDWARD S. GOLDEN. W. W. HAsTINGS 
GRIER C. ORR W. H. Jack 
JoHN G. PARR JAMES PATRICK. 


To Messrs. CoLwELL, MCCULLOCH, GOLDEN, Orr, PARR, BROWN, 
BowMaAN, HastTINGs, JACK AND PATRICK, 


Dear Sirs: 
| herewith cheerfully submit a copy of the 
Sermon, preached on the 16th inst., on the life and character of 
Dr. Painter, for publication. 


Very sincerely, yours, 
T. -D. EWING: 


The sermon which follows, was preached for the purpose of 
recording some of the events of a life of great historic interest to 
the whole church, but, especially to that part of the church in 
which he spent the strength and vigor of his life; and as a small 
tribute of affection, to one endeared by the tenderest associations, 
and by the memories of the constant and uniform kindness with 
which he received and cherished his co-pastor. 


50 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


SERMON 


“Why weep ve, then, for him, who having run 
The bounds of man’s appointed years, at last 

God’s promises fulfilled, life’s labors done, 
Serenely to his final rest bas past.” 


“While the soft memory of bis virtues yet 
Lingers like twilight hues, when the bright sun 1s set.” 


“HE HAD DONE GOOD IN ISRAEL, BOTH TOWARD Gop, AND TOWARD His 
HOUSE. —2Z Chron. 24:16. 


It is native to the human heart to recall and ponder over the 
virtues of the useful and the good. Profane history is, for the 
most part, a record of the lives and acts of those whom the world 
would delight to honor. Sacred history is, for the most part, a 
record of the lives and acts of those whom the church and the 
people of God delight to honor. 

True, In sacred as in profane history, the characters of many of 
the most unworthy and wicked appear; but they are rather 
accidents than properties of history. History has not been written 
for them; they appear upon the scene only to show the enemy with 
which the great and the good have had to contend. Both the 
world and the church are willing that the lives and acts of the 
wicked and the worthless, as far as possible, shall be forgotten. 
“The memory of the just is blessed, but the name of the wicked 
SNableO tame (rarOVemlOnre) 

The Bible throws a sort of sacredness about the memory of 
departed worth, and, by its teaching, shows that one of the best 
and most attractive forms of inculcating and fostering the love of 
excellence, the love of that which is noble, and worthy, and true, 
is to recall and record the history of those who have lived useful 
lives. 

The history of the tried and faithful soldier of the cross, in its 
narration, often quickens the march, and strengthens the resolu- 
tion, and confirms the courage of those who, amid the dust and 
danger, and discouragement of the same conflict, are pressing 
their way along the same toilsome journey. 

So the history of the man of God remains as a guide-post 
pointing to the dangers that encompass our path; and, at the same 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 5 | 


time, with almost unerring certainty, pointing to the pathway that 
leads to life. 

We are today summoned, in thought, to the life and death of a 
faithful ambassador of Christ, who spent the vigor and strength 
of his manhood in laboring in this portion of his Master’s vine- 
yard; and who, during the evening of his life, in counsel and in 
prayer, as an aged father, was with us until the “silver cord was 
loosed, and the golden bowl was broken, and the pitcher was 
broken at the fountain, and the wheel at the cistern;” until the old 
homestead, through infirmity and disease, crumbled down, and the 
spirit went up to the house not made with hands, eternal in the 
heavens. 

His name on earth was not associated “with great hero-deeds, 
or brilliant martial exploits.” He had a better, a far higher voca- 
tion. For almost fifty years he had stood a leader amongst the 
hosts of God’s elect. He had stood, for long years, as a public 
servant, to plead with God for man, and with man for God. He 
had lived not for self, but for God and his fellowman. He had 
spent his life in teaching and counselling, and in entreating and 
beseeching men to be reconciled to God. It was his character and 
his worth, not his worldly position, which gathered that sorrow- 
ing crowd on the day of his burial, and which occasioned every 
place of business in the town to close its doors, in token of respect 
for the deceased, as the funeral procession passed from the church 
to the cemetery. The explanation of the honor shown to him by 
the citizens of the town, as well as by the members of this congre- 
gation, may be found in the text: because “he had done good in 
Israel, both toward God, and toward His house.” 

It would be interesting and profitable, did time permit, to 
dwell upon the history of /eboiada, the servant of God, concern- 
ing whom the text was first spoken. As you will notice, the text is 
an inference from his life, or, rather, it is an explanation, to show 
why they so honored him in his burial. They buried him in the 
city of David, among the kings, because “he had done good in 
Israel, both toward God, and toward His house.” 

But | have selected these words for the purpose of making an 
application of the general truth taught, to the life and labors of 
that venerable minister of Christ, whose recent decease we today 
commemorate. 


ahs History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Rev. Joseph Painter, D. D., son of Jacob and Deborah Painter, 
was born May 21, 1799, in Saulesburg Township, Bucks Co., Pa. 

Of his youth, until he arrived at the age of sixteen, the writer 
has been able to learn but little. [It appears incidentally in his 
correspondence, that in early life he was left an orphan, under the 
care of a guardian, Abraham Reed; and that this part of his life 
was spent on a farm, or clerking in a store, in or near Easton, Pa. 

At the age of seventeen, he commenced his studies in_ the 
classics, literature and science, at the Amwell Academy, N. J.; and 
it was soon after he entered this academy, that he made choice of 
his profession. 

Having finished his academic course, he entered the Sophomore 
class in Union College, Schenectady, N. Y., September 22d, 1819, 
where he graduated the fourth Wednesday of July, 1822. The two 
years subsequent to his graduation were spent in Danville, Pa., 
in the family of Rev. Isaac Grier, teaching an academy, and 
studying theology privately, under the direction of the Rev. John 
B. Patterson, for many years the pastor of the Mahoning Church, 
Danville. 

November 17th, 1824, he was united in marriage to Miss 
Hannah, the fourth daughter of the Rev. John S. Vredenburgh, 
Pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church in Somerville, New Jersey, 
and grand-daughter of the Rev. James Caldwell, of revolutionary 
fame, who was most inhumanly murdered by a drunken senti- 
nel, at Elizabethtown Point, N. J., November 24, 1781. 

And here seems to be the proper place to introduce an account 
of Dr. Painter’s conversion, and early religious experience; also, 
motives for seeking the gospel ministry; as drawn up by himself, 
and found by me among his posthumous papers. The paper has 
upon it the following inscription: “1823, Danville, Columbia 
Co., Pa., previous to my reception, under the care of Northumber- 
land Presbytery.” 

I will not attempt to make extracts from this paper, but will 
give it entire. First, because of the light which it throws upon 
his whole subsequent history; and, second, because of the great 
value of the paper itself, considered from the standpoint of 
religious experience. 

It is worthy, in my opinion, of being placed side by side with 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 53 


the history of the conversion and religious experience of Calvin 
or Luther, or any of the Reformers. 


It is as follows: 


“To the best of my recollection, | had no religious impressions 
until the fifteenth year of my age; although, previous to that time, 
| had frequently, through fear, and particularly at night, engaged 
in the exercise of prayer. After the commencement of the six- 
teenth year of my life, | was taken sick; several times during 
which illness my mind was somewhat exercised about a preparation 
for death. Twice in the fore part of that year | was laid on a sick 
bed, and thought about dying, but had no hope of salvation, except 
the general mercy of God. The first time that this general mercy 
was suggested to my mind, it appeared as a weak prop. There was 
an awful obscurity involved in it, and a great uncertainty whether 
it would be extended to me. But, as a drowning man catches a 
straw, so I, when | discovered that every other hope was taken 
away, gladly seized upon the general mercy of God, and on it | an- 
chored my soul. This afforded a temporary respite to the terrors 
of conscience, and lulled me into a temporary respite to the terrors 
stored to health, | sinned with less remorse, and engaged in more 
acts of impiety. 

“But | was not permitted to enjoy health long, before | was 
again confined to my bed with a more serious disease than ever 
had previously afflicted me. It was the bilious fever. The 
attending physician viewed me as dangerously ill. My _ friends 
thought me past recovery. It chilled my blood to think of death. 
The grave, to me, was dark and cheerless. Beyond the grave was 
an awful gloom, and black despair. 

‘There was not a word said to me respecting my preparation 
for death; nor did | communicate my own sentiments on that sub- 
ject to any person. When I saw my friends in tears, | bad them 
weep not for me! Thus, like a stoic, | concealed the sensibilities 
of my nature, and smothered the keen anguish of despair. 

“But my disease, however, was not so malignant but that it 
would yield to the remedies applied; it took a favorable turn, and, 
through the providence of God, | was again gaining my _ usual 
health. But, being very much debilitated, | was still under the 
necessity of keeping my bed. Thus circumstanced, I was first 
brought to feel the sacred realities of an eternal world; and, from 
this period of my life, | date my serious impressions. | will briefly 
narrate how my mind was exercised at that time; being aware, 
however, that many things attending it will come under ‘that 
denomination of religious feelings which are pronounced, by some 
divines, to be enthusiastical hypocrisy. 

“One Sabbath evening, about nine o’clock, when my mind was 


54 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


very composed, and quite vacant—at least, not serigualy occupied 
in any particular train of thought—on a sudden, I was greatly 
alarmed at my perilous situation as a sinner. Restless as a wave 
of the sea, | rolled from one side of the bed to the other, smarting 
under a sense of guilt; beholding an incensed Jehovah frowning 
upon me from above; and visibly, as it were, the flames of hell 
surrounding my bed. The light that flashed across me, and 
around me, was, in all probability, imaginary; but it was as 
clearly and distinctly seen by me, as if it had been, in realty, 
material light. The agitation of my body was so great as to 
attract the notice of my nurse, who frequently interrogated me 
respecting the cause of my disquietude, without receiving any 
answer. At last, forced by repeated solicitation, | exclaimed, ‘/ 
ama sinner!’ | was asked, ‘how | knewitr’ My reply was ‘J feel 
itl’ 

“The person knelt down at the side of my couch and prayed; 
but not with an audible voice. 

“For two days and one or two nights I lay in this state of mind. 
My grief was pungent, and the anguish of mind awfully keen. 
My burden was intolerably heavy, and despair drank the tears as 
they flowed; Justice still crying, ‘Spare not! Spare not! 

“As | had enjoined the strictest secrecy of my state of mind on 
the nurse, there was not one word said that could comfort me. | 
was shamefully ignorant of the gospel plan of salvation, and my 
thoughts at that time were the most gloomy and appalling that | 
had ever had. My nurse, being apprehensive that complete de- 
rangement of mind would be the necessary consequence of my 
erief, anxiously pressed me to think of the store, which | then 
attended, or the farm, or some other object than that which dis- 
turbed me; but my thoughts were too much absorbed with the 
consideration of eternity, an awful judgment, and the unspeak- 
able torments of hell, to be diverted by the store, the farm, or any 
other inferior object. 

“But, gradually, this great excitement subsided, and my mind 
became tranquil. I then seriously engaged in prayer, and in read- 
ing the Bible, to discover the way of escaping misery. Not having 
been instructed in the very first principles of the Christian re- 
ligion, | found difficulties on every side. | not only prayed for 
myself, but for relations that had been dead for many years; and 
did this until, from reading the Bible, | discovered it was wrong. 

“My mind, however, became daily enlightened with the great 
truths of the Bible, which | read with much attention, and pious 
meditation. But still | was in the dark, and knew not how to live 
a Christian life. 

“Finally, | came to this resolution: that the whole of my fu- 
ture life should be spent agreeably to the holy commandments of 


wn 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 5 


the Bible; that | would live entirely free from sin, and faithfully 
perform every enjoined duty. 

“This scheme of saving myself flattered my proud heart, and 
diffused a complacent satisfaction through the whole system. But, 
by a careful perusal of the scriptures, | discovered that every 
action of my life must be in conformity to the law of God; that 
every thought must be pure, and all the passions entirely subdued: 
and that the whole tenor of my conduct, 1n every situation, and 
under all circumstances, must be parallel to the divine decalogue. 
Seriously reviewing my daily experience, | found myself very de- 
linquent in duty. That I was guilty of positive sin, in thought, 
word, and action. Not only so, but there was an account of fifteen 
years standing against me. This thought distressed me _ very 
much; for it was evident that | should be eternally lost, unless 
there could be satisfaction given to divine justice for those actual 
sins Which had been committed in my youthful years. 

“Thus was I filled with doubts, fears and distress, and knew not 
how to get relief. I found that my self-righteousness must be 
abandoned, and that my hopes of happiness must be built on a 
surer foundation. During this conflict of hope and fear | 
diligently searched the Word of God, and engaged in prayer for 
direction. And whilst one evening | was on my knees, crying 
for divine aid and direction, suddenly all my former plans were 
relinquished—my doubts vanished in a moment, and | saw with 
an unclouded eye the Saviour of sinners! ~The Lamb of God who 
taketh away the sins of the world. He appeared to be at the right 
hand of God. The Mediator between God and man. The only 
hope set before me. The only way of salvation was through His 
merits. The whole Trinity seemed very bright and glorious, but 
the Saviour appeared to me to offer Himself as my surety, my ad- 
vocate,; one who would undertake my cause, and give me deliver- 
ance. Compassion, love and mercy beamed from His counten- 
ance—my mind was lost, for a moment, 1n wonder and astonish- 
ment! Such a view of heavenly things never before met my 
astonished eye. If | remember correctly, there was a little re- 
luctance in giving up my cause entirely into the Saviour’s hands. 
At last | was brought to venture my all on Him, and to receive 
Fim as my only Saviour and Redeemer. 

“The joy that | felt at that time was unspeakable and full of 
glory. The glory of God seemed visible to my natural eyes, and 
my room appeared illuminated by the divine presence. Heaven 
and all its joys were apparently within reach; it was a delightful 
moment to my soul. I enjoyed perfect bliss. This transport 
lasted for some considerable time, and my mind was occupied. 
wholly in adoration and praise. 

“At that time, | wished for no more intercourse with mankind, 


56 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


but ardently desired and requested to be taken immediately to 
Heaven. I felt then that nothing could make me happy but to 
praise and adore God eternally, and enjoy him forever. | had lost 
all relish for earthly objects and was grieved to think of again 
mingling with a gay and thoughtless world. 

“The whole of this scene passed in my sick room, when I| was 
so far recovered as to be able to sit up and walk about a little. 

“The emotions of mind were at that time communicated to no 
person but my nurse. After much thought and reflection I cen- 
cluded it to be my duty to enter again into the busy world, but not 
without praying heartily for the restraining grace of God to pre- 
serve me from sin. I enjoyed great peace of mind the remaining 
part of that year. A sweet and heavenly calm would often per- 
vade my mind for whole days; and amid the avocations of life, my 
thoughts dwelt on heavenly things, and my soul communed with 
God. 

“My -enjoyment in reading the scriptures was great; whilst 
meditating thereon, the fire would kindle and my soul burn with 
seraphic ardor, to be like Christ, whom I was commanded to 
imitate. Whatever passages of scripture applied to moral conduct, 
or had any bearing on the corruption of the human heart, were 
closely and seriously considered by me, with a special reference to 
my personal concern in them. 

“And thus, by reading the bible, by prayer and the enlighten- 
ing influences of God’s Spirit, | was led on to embrace the gospel 
plan of salvation; for | was not instructed orally by any friend, 
nor did | hear preaching in that year, excepting a few times. But 
I always did attend to hearing sermons when an opportunity offer- 
ed, but that was seldom. 

“Having arrived at the age of sixteen, it became my duty to 
choose a profession or trade, or that avocation in life by which 
I was to be supported; it being left entirely to my own option, | 
found more difficulty in making a choice than can be easily 1m- 
agined, except by those who have been similarly situated. To dis- 
cover what occupation would best accord with my determined 
resolution to serve God, exceedingly increased this difficulty. But 
my anxiety about getting a living in the world was relieved by a 
consideration of Matt. 8:33, “Seek first the kingdom of God,” &c. 
This text dwelt on my mind for many days. 

“To the medical profession, to which I should have been in 
all probability, if my father had lived, induced to turn my atten- 
tion, | had a natural antipathy, owing to the exceeding inability 
of my nervous system; and about the mercantile business, in which 
I was about to engage, | had many scruples of conscience. There 
were many temptations to injustice and fraud attending it, which 
made me think seriously of giving it up and engaging in some 
other employment. 


— 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning ay 


“But. my mind was still unsettled, and no other occupation, at 
that time, appeared further removed from danger, my final con- 
clusion was to enter into a commercial line of business. But be- 
ing advised not to accept a situation in the city, which was offered, 
| concluded to spend a few months at an academy. 

“Tt was while attending to academical studies that my mind was 
fully made up to devote myself to the gospel ministry. It was 
after cool and deliberate reflection that | came to this resolution. 
No person suggested it to me, nor did I consult with a single human 
being respecting the propriety of this measure. Indeed, I had not, 
as yet, told any living person, but one, of my religious feelings. 

“During a vacation in the academy | visited my guardian, and 
applied to him for money, to be expended on my education. 
Whether I told him my design in acquiring an education | cannot 
say, for he was an irreligious and very austere man. |! spoke to 
him of the subject with much delicacy, and expatiated on the gen- 
eral advantages of classical literature. He, however, gave his con- 
sent, and then | made known my intention to my nurse, who ap- 
proved of it. 

“When my relations found out my determination in educating 
myself for the ministry, they all unanimously disapproved of it, 
but I only regretted that their views did not coincide with mine. 
I told them then of my fixed purpose, and continued that course 
of conduct which conscience told me was right. My relations have 
always treated me kindly, but do even to this day regret my 
choice. 

“Two years passed, from the time that my mind was thus 
changed in its religious views, before I joined a church. My de- 
lay was occasioned by fear of losing my serious impressions—the 
same reason caused me not to inform a third person of the change. 
By acting in this manner | deprived myself of much comfort and 
satisfaction, which result from free conversation and advice on 
religious subjects. 


“The motives which had most weight in determining my choice 
of a clerical profession, were the following: 


‘! thought I could serve God more acceptably in that way than 
any other. My ardent desire was then, and is now, to be wholly, 
entirely and unreservedly devoted to His glory. I felt then, and 
I do now feel, that [ could give up the dearest earthly object, when 
called in His providence to do so, for His sake. I feel a willing- 
ness to follow withersoever God shall, in His good providence, call 
me; and to perform with cheerfulness and filial piety whatever 
He may command. Nay, I do not count my life dear to me if | 
can serve God acceptably, and glorify Him in all my actions. The 
next general motive is this: | have had for many years, at least 


58 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ever since my thoughts were turned to the ministry, a fond hope 
of being beneficial to my fellow beings, that | might be an iustru- 
ment to their conversion, and become a co-worker with God in ad- 
vancing His kingdom on the earth and in calling His elected peo- 
ple from the four corners of the world. These have been and are 
now my principal motives—I know no others.” 


The following postscript is at the close. 


“| have been speaking of God’s gracious dealings with me; 
have told particularly of my joys and comfort in religion, and the 
height to which they have risen. 

“But it must not be understood that | have always felt the 
gracious presence of God with me since my remarkable change of 
mind. No, | have often been cold and lukewarm and formal in 
my devotions—had my doubts and fears, joys and sorrows— 
sometimes wandering a long time in this wilderness, at other 
times had Pisgah views of the Promised Land.” 


From the minutes of the Presbytery of Northumberland, the 
following facts have been gathered concerning his reception by 
that Presbytery—licensure and ordination: 


‘Mr. Joseph Painter, a graduate of Union College, was taken 
under the care of the Presbytery of Northumberland, October 
7th, 1823.” Subjects were assigned him from Exegesis and 
Homily, to be read at the next stated meeting. (The subject for 
Exegesis was: “Num inter communem et specitalem gratiam 
essentiale discrimen sit?” And for Homily: Matt. 11:25, 26.) 
April 21, 1824, Mr. P. delivered the Exegesis and Homily, and 
was also examined in Latin and Greek, the Sciences and System- 
atic Theology—‘“giving on all competent satisfaction.” At this 
same meeting he was directed to prepare a Presbyterial exercise on 
Heb. 1:1, 2; a lecture on’ 2 Cor. 4:1-7; and a popular sermon on 
Rom. 5:1, to be delivered at next meeting. 

Aug 17,°1824.. Mr-ePainter- opened -thewmeetine mol mites 
bytery at Milton, Pa., with a sermon from Rom. 5:1, and read a 
critical exercise and lecture, both of which, together with the 
popular sermon, were sustained as parts of trial for licensure— 
whereupon he was licensed as a probationer for the gospel min- 
istry. 

“April 19th, 1825. At a meeting held in the Warrior Run 
Church, he was, on application of the Lycoming Church, appointed 
to supply that church until the next stated meeting. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 59 


“October 7, 1825, at Milton, Pa., Mr. P. accepted a call for his 
pastoral services from the Lycoming Church, on a salary of $500. 
Text assigned for his ordination sermon, | Cor. 2:2. He was or- 
dained and installed pastor of the Lycoming Church at Newbury, 
Pa., November 23, 1825. The Rev. W. R. Smith, of Northumber- 
land, preached the sermon; the Rev. J. H. Grier, of Jersey Shore, 
delivered the charge to the pastor, and the Rev. John Bryson, of 
Warrior Run, to the people.” 

Dr. Painter represented the Presbytery of Northumberland in 
the General Assemblies of 1827, 1828 and 1832, and this fact is 
worthy of special notice. 

It is remarkable that one so young in the ministry (only two 
years) should have been sent to the General Assembly, and that 
he was sent two successive years, warrants us in inferring, that at 
that early age, he had secured the confidence of his brethren in the 
ministry as a wise and prudent Presbyter. 

The pastoral relation existing between him and the Lycoming 
Church was dissolved April 20th, 1831. Between April, 1831, 
and March, 1834, he labored in the churches of White Deer, 
Warrior Run and Peniel, (all in the Presbytery of Northumber- 
land,) as stated supply. 

In the fall of 1833, Dr. Painter, thinking of making a change 
in his field of labor, and after some correspondence with the 
Secretary of Domestic Missions, with reference to becoming a 
missionary, decided to make a tour of observation through Western 
Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio. Alone, in his sulky, he entered 
upon this tour, visiting Hollidaysburg, Johnstown, Blairsville, 
Saltsburg, Apollo and Freeport. He stopped one night at the 
house of Rev. Samuel McFerren, D. D., of Congruity, Westmore- 
land County, to counsel him as to the churches in Western Penn- 
sylvania. Dr. McFerren then first named to him Kittanning, and 
urged him to visit that place. The arguments of Dr. McFerren 
(as given to the writer by Dr. P.) were: 


“That the church in Kittanning was very small; that it was 
decreasing—the membership being diminished by death, by re- 
moval of residence, and by annexing with churches of other de- 
nominations; and that it had only one elder, David Johnston, Esq., 
and if the church did not soon secure a pastor, 1t would become 
extinct.” 


60 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Dr. Painter’s reply was: “That he had left his home with a 
view of visiting the Great West, and that he would pursue his 
journey at present, but if practicable, on bis return, he would visit 
Kittanning.” 

He therefore continued his journey through Pittsburgh, Can- 
nonsburg, Washington and Wheeling—passed over into Ohio and 
stopped at St. Clairsville; here he spent two Sabbaths, was pleased 
with the place and the people, and the people were so well pleased 
with him as to urge him to remain, or to return and become their 
pastor. Here, an zmcident of a trivial nature in itself, and yet one 
that gives us an insight to the character of Dr. Painter, disposed 
him to abandon all idea of settling in Ohio. He was invited to 
marry a couple, and having accepted the invitation, was about 
leaving the house where he was stopping, to go and officiate at the 
marriage, when one of the elders met him and asked him “if he had 
a permit to marry?” “What is that?’ inquired the Doctor. “A 
written statement, signed by the prothonotary, authorizing you to 
marry the parties,’ said the elder. “I marry,” replied the Doctor, 
“by virtue of my office; custom in this case becomes law, and 
marriage, by an ordained minister of the gospel, is, in Pennsyl- 
vania, valid and legal; | decline officiating on this occasion, and 
will return to Pennsylvania; it is my native State; I like her laws, 
and can be better contented in that State than in any other State 
in the Union!” 

He returned the next week to Pittsburgh, and thence, in his 
sulky, by way of Freeport and Slatelick, came to visit Kittanning. 

Here he spent two Sabbaths—preached three sermons and left 
on Monday morning for his home in Northumberland County, 
where he arrived on the Saturday following, November 16th, 1833 
—just forty years ago today. 

A home made joyous by his safe return, but whose rejoicing 
was soon turned to mourning. In the mysterious providence of 
God, a dark cloud of sorrow, all unseen by that happy circle, was 
even then pending over them. The night following his return his 
wife took sick, lingered a little more than two weeks, and died, 
December 4th, 1833, leaving him with a family of four children, 
one an infant; the eldest about six and a half years old. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 6] 


The record of this sad event, in his own hand-writing, is: 


“A beloved wife, endeared to all her acquaintances in life, and 
mourned by all when removed by death.” 

“She died without a struggle, without a groan—she literally fell 
asleep, and appeared as sweet in death as in life.” 

The Church in Kittanning at once took preparatory steps for 
securing Doctor P. as their pastor, expecting at the same time that 
one-third of his time should be spent in preaching in Rural Valley. 
The following letter will best explain their action: 


“Kittanning, 27th November, 1833. 
Rev. JOSEPH PAINTER, 

Dear Sir:—In accordance with the unanimous wish of the 
members of the Presbyterian Church here, and of some of the prominent 
citizens of Rural Valley, we invite and solicit you to take charge of these 
two congregations, as stated pastor. And the undersigned hereby pledge 
themselves for the payment to you of the sum of five hundred dollars, annu- 
ally, for your services, while you continue pastor of said congregations. 
We are, Rev’d and Dear Sir, 

Your humble servants, 
Davin JOHNSTON, —Sole Elder. 

A. COLWELL, 

SamM’L McKee, 

JNo GALBRAITH, 

J. E. Brown, 

JOHN R. JOHNSTON, 
CHAMBERS Orr, 

Trustees of the First Presbyterian Church in Kittanning.” 


Dr. Painter accepted this invitation, and at once made prepara- 
tions for removing to Kittanning. He arrived there with his 
family the first week in April, 1834, and preached the second Sab- 
bath of April. 


The reasons for the pastoral relation existing between Dr. P. 
and the Lycoming Church being dissolved, incidentally appear 
in a correspondence between him and Dr. George Junkin. It ap- 
pears that both as a preacher and a pastor he was greatly admired 
and loved by his people. The congregation was united and pros- 
perous, but they were neglecting to pay him the salary which they 
had promised him. And, strange as it may have appeared to 
them, the Doctor could not Jive on a mere “promise to pay.” On 
the back of the “call,” from the Lycoming Church, promising to 


62 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


pay him $500.00, I find the following entry, which will explain 
itself : 
“October Ist, 1833. Due on this call, $850.00, with interest.” 


It seems to be a parallel case with many of those, at the present 
day, 1f we are to judge by the resolutions passed and published in 
our religious papers, where separations take place between pastor 
and people. It is one of those facts in history which is to me per- 
fectly inexplicable. A people devotedly attached to their pastor, 
and yet systematically starving that same loved pastor. 

September 23, 1834. Rev. Robert Johnston preached in Kit- 
tanning, and moderated a “call” for two-thirds of Doctor Painter’s 
time. This call being accepted, the Presbytery of Blairsville ap- 
pointed November 14th, 1834, as the day for the installation, and 
the following committee to take part in the installation services: 
Rev. Elisha Barrett, to preach the sermon; Rev. Robert Johnston, 
to preside and deliver the charge to the pastor; and Rev. David 
Lewis, to charge the people. In accordance with this arrangement, 
Dr. Painter was installed pastor over the First Presbyterian 
Church, Kittanning, November 14th, 1834. (39 years on Friday 
last. ) 

Doctor Painter now preached one-fourth of his time in Rural 
Valley; his church was a small log school house; his pulpit, a dry 
goods box on end; his salary, $80.00, payable in produce, at 
market price, in Kittanning. His audience, very small at first, in- 
creased in numbers, until in the Spring of 1835, Presbytery direct- 
ed a church to be organized. A church was organized by Dr. 
Painter, August 20th, 1835, and called the Presbyterian Church of 
Rural Valley. Here, the Doctor preached one-third of his time, 
until the Fall of 1840, when a new church having been built, and 
the congregation having admitted to full membership eighty-five 
communicants, so prosperous as to desire the one-half of a pastor's 
time, he declined serving them longer. 

He then began preaching in Wayne Township, Armstrong 
County, and in a few months an application was made for an 
organization. The Doctor and Hon. John Calhoun, Elder, by 
order of Presbytery, organized the church at the house of Joseph 
Clever; the organization was called Concord. | have found the 
following entry made by the Doctor: ‘The house in which the 
congregation met, when the organization was effected, was a log 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 63 


cabin with one room; in it was a family of children and all the 
people that assembled at that time, and yet there was room for 
more, but the people were united and had a mind to work.” The 
church of Concord grew rapidly under his ministrations, until the 
31st of March, 1853; but the field required more labor than the 
Doctor was able to give it. He left that young church in a happy 
and prosperous condition—during his ministry, eigthy-six persons 
were admitted to the communion of the church. I quote from a 
letter received from an elder in Concord Church: “Doctor Painter 
usually rode out on Saturday, and returned on Monday, stopping 
with the people by turns, and although cooking, eating and sleep- 
ing were all done in the same apartment, by most of them, yet his 
coming was hailed with pleasure by both old and young.” The 
journeying to and from Concord, a distance of twelve miles from 
Kittanning, generally on horseback, exposed to the wet and cold, 
proved too much for his strength; his health began to fail, and in 
the spring of 1853, he ceased to supply that church. 

In the summer of 1834, Dr. Painter first visited the Crooked 
Creek Church, having been organized some time, but was then 
almost extinct, He could only give them about one-sixth of his 
time, but under his watch and care it soon revived, and in a few 
years, all his time being required in his pastoral charge, he trans- 
ferred it to other hands in quite a prosperous condition. 

The Doctor’s account of his first visit to Crooked Creek Church, 
has fallen into my hands, and | here insert it as an interesting item 
in the history of that church. 

He writes: “I first visited the church of Crooked Creek in the 
summer of 1834. The people had ceased to attend church among 
themselves, and though they had commenced some years before 
to erect a church, they had not finished it. They had cut and 
hewed and put up logs for a large church, and had it under roof; 
the places for the doors were cut out, but the house never had a 
floor, or doors, or windows, and the wide places between the logs 
had never been closed. When I first saw it, I noticed some sheep 
reposing on the ground within the log enclosure; in fact, the 
building appeared to be the resort of all kinds of cattle that grazed 
about through the woods; they had free ingress into it, and egress 
Ont On it, 

From this date, the church in Kittanning took the whole of 


64 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Dr. P.’s time, and here he continued to labor, until age and in- 
creasing infirmity induced him, in December, 1863, to retire from 
active duties of the pastorate. 

Mr. Painter, on the 13th February, 1839, was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Mary Ann, eldest daughter of Boyle Irwin, Esq., 
of Pittsburgh. This happy relation was continued in the kind 
providence of God, through his life; so that in his declining years 
he was cheered and blessed with the tender care and undying 
affection of a devoted wife. 

It will be seen from this brief sketch, that the field of Dr. 
Painter’s labors, making Kittanning the centre, would have a 
radius of about fifteen miles. Within this territory, since 1834, 
there have been ten churches organized; and today, on this same 
territory, there are nine Presbyterian ministers laboring for the 
whole or part of the time, whilst there are in full communion in 
these churches, over 1,200 members according to reports of 1873. 
How much is due to the labors of Dr. P., for the strength of Pres- 
byterianism, in this territory today, we may not attempt to esti- 
mate. The influence of a man of God cannot be even approxi- 
mated by the extent of territory over which he has labored. As well 
measure the extent of the wave upon the sea, as you stand upon 
the vessel, by the eye of sense; it will roll on far, far beyond your 
vision, even until it reaches the shore. So the influence of a man 
of God; it even passes beyond our vision; it 1s not even limited 
by time; it will roll on and on over the plains of glory. 

Dr. Painter’s attainments in literature, especially sacred 
literature, were of a high order. A graduate of Union College, 
NY 3101822? 


Among his papers I find the following letter from Dr. Nott, 
recommending him as'a teacher of youth: 


The bearer, Joseph Painter, a member of the Senior Class in_ this 
College, is a young gentleman of an amiable disposition, of exemplary piety, 
of honorable standing in his class, and of very respectable literary attain- 
ments. As he is desirous to devote some time to the business of instruction, 
before he enters on the study of a profession, he is hereby recommended to 
those who are desirous to employ a teacher of youth. 


BL IPR ALE ING Taig 
AND’W. YATES. 
UNION COLLEGE, 
March 11th, 1822. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 605 


He also received a second degree in 1846, (A. M.,) from the 
same college, and in 1858, the honorary degree of D. D. was con- 
ferred upon him by Jefferson College, Pa. 

Endowed by nature with a superior intellect, and being a close 
student all his life, he secured the first rank as a scholar in the 
ministry. His was no mere superficial knowledge; it was solid and 
substantial. Every discourse, whether extempore or delivered 
after careful preparation, discovered his ripe scholarship. When 
the degree of D. D. was conferred upon him, it was truthfully said 
by a correspondent of the press, “The tztle is theological, and few 
in any land deserve it better than Rev. Dr. Painter.” 

As a Christian, his private life was unimpeachable; the deep 
experience through which he passed at his conversion, taught him 
thoroughly, both of the heinous nature of sin and of the power of 
erace in the heart, so as to lead him to habits of close discrimina- 
tion in christian experience, and thus he formed a deep acquaint- 
ance with his own inner life. He was eminently a man of prayer; 
much of his time, as is testified by those who knew him, best, was 
spent in private, in communion with his God. His private life 
beautifully illustrated the excellencies of the religion of Christ, and 
was a constant living witness for the truth as it is in Jesus. 

He was eminently a social man. No one could be in his society 
for even a brief space, and not discover those qualities of heart 
and head, which made him a centre of attraction in social life. 
A Doctor of Divinity, a Theological Professor, once said to me, 
“IT enjoy so much hearing Dr. Painter laugh; he laughs all over, 
and it discovers to me so much of his social life.” With a well 
stored mind, a highly refined taste, and an exquisitely keen sense 
of the ludicrous, we can explain why it was that he sometimes gave 
vent to his feelings in a good hearty laugh, when those around 
him were excited to laughter, rather by his example, than by any 
thing that they could see in the occasion for merriment. 

And yet, we must not overlook the fact, that his social sus- 
ceptibilities, when we remember the extreme deafness with which 
he was afflicted during so great a part of his life, “instead of be- 


”? 


ing,’ in the language of Dr. Donaldson, “a well-spring of enjoy- 


ment, as they would otherwise have been, have rendered these dis- 


66 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


positions a greater source of vexation and desolation, than could 
have been felt by an unsocial man.” 

As a Preacher, Dr. Painter was learned, instructive, and im- 
pressive. His sermons were prepared with great care, and deliver- 
ed with great earnestness. They were distinguished for clearness 
of thought, terseness of diction, and aptness and frequency of 
Scripture references. They always abounded in clear views of 
gospel truth. Most generally doctrinal, but always direct and 
practical in their application. 

In his devotional exercises in the pulpit, there were always 
great solemnity and fervor; and often his spirit of devotion rose 
to such a degree as to awaken an almost universal response 
through the entire audience. 

On special occasions, the Doctor was often exceedingly happy 
in expression. We all remember, with great pleasure, the part 
taken by him on communion occasions, during the late years of his 
life. His very patriarchial appearance thrilled us with emotion; 
and, as with trembling accents, he led us to the mercy seat in the 
consecration, or closing prayer, and as he poured forth his soul to 
God in behalf of Zion, and for this branch of it, to which he had so 
long ministered, and especially for those who had never yet made 
profession of love to Christ, how deeply we all felt that, that was 
the earnest, effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man! 

And in his addresses on those occasions, how almost universally 
he dwelt upon the communion of saints, communion with Christ, 
and with all believers; and then his thoughts would rise, and his 
whole soul would pour forth in a description of, and longing for, 
that heavenly communion that he evidently so soon expected to 
enter upon. 

On these occasions he was wont to review briefly the Christian 
life, and then, like the Apostle Paul, to turn his eye to the crown 
that was awaiting him at the hour of his departure. And more 
than once did he intimate to us, that these seasons on earth, to 
him, would soon all be past, but he looked forward and upward 
with no uncertain faith; feeling assured that, if the earthly house 
of this tabernacle were dissolved, he had a building of God, a 
house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 

As a Presbyter, Dr. Painter, in the early part of his min- 
istry, Was a most active and energetic, and in all the judicatories 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 67 


of the Church took a leading part. His correct knowledge of the 
constitution and laws of the Church—his calm and deliberate 
manner of arriving at a decision, added to the firmness with which 
he held to a judgment formed—fitted him well for a leader in any 
of the judicatories of the Church. 

But his deafness, which increased with age, crippled his use- 
fulness as a Presbyter, more than in any other position to which 
he was called. And this reason, that he could not hear sufficiently 
to follow intelligently the business engaged in, in our church 
courts, constrained him to relinquish almost entirely his attendance 
upon them. And yet his love for the Church was such, that he 
always took a deep interest in all the business of its judicatories; 
and when I returned from any of them, he was always delighted to 
hear of anything of any special interest to the Church; and as long 
as sufficient strength of body and vigor of mind were given him, 
he kept himself well posted by reading carefully all the reports 
of the progress of the Church of Christ. 


When speaking of the Church, at one time, in my presence, 
with deep emotion, and great earnestness, he exclaimed, in the 
language of the Psalmist: 


“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! 

They shall prosper that love thee! 

Peace be within thy walls; and 
Prosperity within thy palaces, 

For my brethren and companions’ sakes, 

I will now say, Peace be with thee, 
Because of the house of the Lord our God, 
I will seek thy good.” 


But I would be unjust to the memory of Dr. Painter, did I not 
thus publicly bear witness to the cordial, warm-hearted reception 
which | received from him, as his co-pastor. And nothing, dur- 
ing a co-pastorate of more than nine years, ever arose to mar, in 
the least, our intercourse. 

It is true, we sometimes differed in our views on questions of 
interest, both to the church and the state; but our conversations 
and discussions concerning them were always carried on with the 
same kind feeling as if we had held the same views. 

And it was only when I promised him that I would not use his 


68 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


opinion against my own judgment, that he would give any de- 
cided opinion on any question of church policy. 

His uniform and constant kindness to me, personally and 
officially, requires this public recognition of it. 


2 Ee Be ye aS tS 


This sketch of Dr. Painter’s life and character, brief and 1m- 
perfect though it be, sufficiently warrants us in applying to him 
the words of the text. 

As the sacred writer of Jehoiada, so we, of Dr. Painter may 
truthfully say, “He had done good in Israel, both toward God, and 
toward His house.”’ 

The life of Dr. Painter 1s a most interesting one, and especially 
so, to those who may be thrown upon their own resources, and are 
constrained to work their own way in life, often in the face of 
great opposition. The greater part of the funds necessary for his 
maintenance, when at the academy, appears to have been secured 
by himself; part saved from his clerkship, and part gained by 
teaching, as he had opportunity. 

When he made choice of his profession, he was, in reality, cast 
off by those from whom he might justly have expected aid. At 
one time, being in want of funds, he applied to a very near rela- 
tive, who had an abundance of this world’s goods, for some aid to 
enable him to prosecute his studies. The response which was given 
him was, in substance, the following: “If you want money to 
enable you to enter into business, the mercantile, or any other that 
you may choose; or if you wish to prepare yourself for the prac- 
tice of law, or of medicine, I will give you all you wish; but, if 
you expect to become a preacher, then not one cent!” 

And yet this opposition, instead of driving him from the min- 
istry, appeared to arouse him to put forth all his energies to secure 
the position for which he so ardently longed, and to which he be- 
lieved his blessed Master had called him. 

He met and overcame more than ordinary opposition in his 
preparation for standing as a watchman on the walls of Zion; and 
when in the ministry, his field of labor was not chosen with refer- 
ence to ease and enjoyment; rather was he willing to “endure hard- 
ship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” 

Twice, yea, thrice, was he called to pass through the deep 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 69 


waters of affliction, in the death of those near and dear to him. 
First, a well-beloved wife, and, afterwards, a little son, about 
three years of age, whom he loved with the tenderest emotion; and, 
last, a dearly loved daughter, who had married, and gone South; 
and who, during our recent terrible war, died in Memphis, in 1862, 
amongst strangers, and almost alone. The condition of our coun- 
try was such, that the father could not go to see her, and this fact 
added greatly to his distress. But in all these cases he was enabled 
to say, even when smarting under the rod, “The Lord gave, the 
Lord hath taken away, and blessed be the name of the Lord.” 

And many of you will remember when the “fire fiend,’ in a 
brief hour, almost literally licked up all his earthly possessions, 
how he summoned again his energies, and in addition to all his 
labors as a pastor, took charge of the academy in this place, in 
order that he might, in part at least, recover his loss,-and at the 
same time provide for himself and family. His example is well 
worthy the imitation by the many who are called to suffer losses 
and bear afflictions in this life. 

But the evening of Dr. Painter’s life was in many respects a 
most remarkable one. It was a lengthy twilight, following hard 
upon a lovely day; lovely, not because it was free from storm and 
tempest, for 1t was just the reverse, but lovely to contemplate, be- 
cause filled up with useful deeds; lovely, because it had been con- 
secrated in youth to the God of love; lovely, because the light that 
radiated from that life, was such as to lead others to glorify our 
Father which 1s in heaven. 

The last ten or twelve years must be included in the evening 
of his life. His infirmity (deafness,) gradually settled down upon 
him until it almost literally severed him from all the enjoyments 
of social life. 

In the summer of 1865 he received great injury from falling 
down stairs; it was a most remarkable providence that he was 
not instantly killed; he was precipitated headlong, in the darkness 
of night, from the top to the foot of the stairs, with nothing to 
break, in the least, the force of the fall. He fell upon his head and 
shoulders, and received injuries so severe, that he was confined to 
his bed for more than six months. 

In speaking to the writer concerning that fall, he said: “When 
[ felt myself going, | knew where | was; | comprehended in an 


70 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


instant my position, and felt sure that the next moment I would 
be in eternity, and | was enabled without fear to give myself into 
the hands of my Saviour.” 

When he first awoke to consciousness, afterwards, he inquired 
very particularly, of his physician, about the possibility of -his 
recovery; and being told by him that he thought he would re- 
cover, he answered with great earnestness, “Now I want you to 
tell me just my true condition. I have no fears, whatever, of 
death; and if you think I am about to die, | want you to tell me 
plainly.” 

During the time he was then confined to his room, he often 
spoke to me of his expectations, soon to go to the upper sanctuary; 
but his life was spared, and as soon as he was able, he was again 
on the Sabbath morning in his place on that chair, [the chair stooc! 
draped in mourning before the pulpit,| to enjoy the worship ot 
God in His house. And as long as his strength permitted, he testi- 
fied his love for the house of God, and the worship of God, by his 
presence, although the entire services were unintelligible to him, 
because unheard by him. 

In the winter of 1872, he was attacked by paralysis. This he 
himself interpreted as his last illness, and frequently, both to 
members of his family and the writer, he stated that he anticipated 
his death at any time; his prayer was for resignation and patience 
to wait the coming of the Son of Man. 

About the Ist of May, 1873, he had a second attack of paraly- 
SIs, SO severe was this as to Occasion great mental derangement. 
It was deeply touching to witness his sufferings during the last 
days of his life. Whether he was fully conscious of his suffering 
or not, none may certainly know; we would gladly hope that he 
was not. And yet even his mental wanderings suggested a 
thought truly sublime. 

In his tossings, which were at times almost convulsive, and so 
harrowing to the feelings of the loved ones who were watching 
him so tenderly, he would, in broken accents, plead so earnestly to 
be taken home, “‘take me home! take me home! take me!” Were 
not these broken sentences but the echo of the deeper expression 
of the soul, that was longing to be freed from the body, and to be 
taken home to its mansion on high? 

Well might the artist there, could he have looked upon him in 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 7\ 


his struggling and tossing, as if in conflict with the last enemy, 
have painted the scene of a pilgrim, a stranger, a traveler, one far 
from home, longing, and yearning, and pleading to be taken up 
and carried home. 

On the Saturday before his death, there was no very perceptible 
change, except that his breathing seemed heavier and at greater 
intervals; but all felt that the time for his departure was at hand. 
On the night train, his son Henry, (Rev. H. M. Painter, of 
Springfield,) arrived; all the members of his family that were 
living were then present, and, as if this were the design of his 
waiting, early on Sabbath morning, without a struggle and with- 
out a moan, he fell asleep in Jesus. 

The Sabbath morning was a fitting time for him, who so 
greatly loved the Sabbath on earth, to ascend to the eternal Sab- 
bath above! 

And shall thought be fettered to earth, in the contemplation of 
such a scene as this? No, rather let it rise and soar away on the 
wings of imagination with the spirit of that ambassador for Christ, 
that under-shepherd who had ministered to his flock on earth for 
so many years! Hark! The welcome greetings of the Great 
Shepherd and Bishop of souls. See the glad reunion of loved ones! 
And, as the white robes of glory are cast around him, and _ the 
crown of life is placed upon his head, and the palm of victory and 
the harp are placed in his hand, see, what a company of saved 
souls that had gone before from the little flock he cared for on 
earth, are crowding around him, each bidding him thrice welcome, 
not only as a co-heir, with them, of that heavenly inheritance, but 
as the instrument, under God, of thezr salvation. 

No more shall any infirmity conceal from him the beauty and 
erandeur of song; but, methinks, the music and the society of 
heaven will be all the more glorious on account of the deafness 
and solitariness of earth! In strains, exalted by the infirmity 
born on earth, shall he not worship that God, who so mysteriously 
appeared to him at his conversion, saying: Blessing, and glory, 
and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, 
be unto our God forever and forever? 

Let the history of this man of God banish the fears, strengthen 
the energies and confirm the hopes of every follower of Christ. 
And let the impenitent from it learn to seek first the kingdom of 
God and His righteousness, and to seek His kingdom now. 


72 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


RESOLUTIONS 


Resolutions unanimously adopted at a Joint Meeting of the Ses- 
sion and Trustees of the First Presbyterian Church, Kittan- 
ing, June 2d, 1873. 


Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, our heavenly Father, 
who, in perfect wisdom and mercy, rules over all, to remove from 
his earthly toils the Rev. Joseph Painter, D. D., who, for thirty 
years, was an active pastor; and, for the last nine years (although 
retired from the active duties of the pastorate) was still with us a 
loved and revered father in the church. Therefore, 


Resolved, Ist. That we recognize, in this event, the purpose 
of the Divine will, who causes all things to work together for good 
to those who love Him. 


Resolved, 2d. That we cheerfully bear witness to the late 
Dr. Painter, as a faithful minister of the New Testament: one 
who, 1n the exposition of the Word, was clear and learned; in the 
practical application of it, earnest and faithful. 


Resolved, 3d. That the hallowed memories that cluster around 
his life all testify to us of its completeness; whether as a gentle- 
man, a husband, a father, a Christian, or a commissioned embas- 
sador of Christ. 


Resolved, 4th. That, by this event, we are admonished of the 
frailty and uncertainty of our lives; and pray our Heavenly Father 
that we may be urged to increased diligence in all the duties of the 
Christian life. 


Resolved, 5th. That in token of our love and reverence for the 
deceased, the church be draped in mourning, and that said drapery 
remain for sixty days. 


Resolved, 6th. That an official copy of these Resolutions be 
furnished the family of the deceased, and also recorded upon the 
records of the Session and of the Trustees; also, published in the 
secular and religious papers. 

J..A. CoLweELl, Pres-é 
Dr. J. G. CUNNINGHAM, Sec’y. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 73 


The Third Pastor 


REV LOSE WING Ds D: 
1864—1880 


During Mr. Ewing’s senior year at Western Theological Semin- 
ary he preached here a number of times and a call was extended 
to him. Immediatey following his graduation he located in Kit- 
tanning. May 10, 1864, he was ordained to the Gospel Ministry 
and installed as our pastor by Saltsburg Presbytery. At once there 
was a revival of interest along all lines which was soon followed by 
an ingathering of souls. This interest increased as the years 
passed and during Mr. Ewing’s pastorate 446 persons were added 
to the church. The net increase was 298. 

Of the 146 who were members of this church in April, 1864, 
“T only” am left here and so far as is known Dr. Painter’s two 
daughters are the only others living. Of those received during 
Mr. Ewing’s leadership 21 are members in this Communion 
(1929). Below are their names in the order in which they were 
received into the Church: 


Uliettes  ODINSOli eee iets en ort ee April 2, 1864 
felt ADeLo ny c@Onicl auceeeer eh ee eee July 2, 1864 
Mab vai Zs rawiOrd*(aVits: ieee coe April 8, 1865 
Elizabeth (Bowman) Slaymaker (Mrs.) ,Jan. 13, 1866 
Maryvet Kron) -heecooks (Missy. 225: Jan 135313566 
SPACERS S LMG Eel eit sh are gee pee Oct. 5, 1867 
Pinisayintral DCalt meets oe tee ea April 9, 1870 
jPeetiato ohtigieevin’ poy ho = ieee ors ene August 5, 1871 
Elizabeth (Rupp) Cochrane (Mrs.).......... jan, sie S73 
Patneieeizaelicilmaneevitss) ve oe May 12, 1873 
NaALy ali OLys) sts Cenern iViTS*) met ce Oct. 19, 1874 
akc wi ee bc KODE ee pn tee io a | OcteZ0 ala. 
Paste aver ven tira Leta eny cate ere cre SE anew lor alo (6 
WAL OALCtM | eiC Md DL) eee tremely nent ka ane Zomeloro 
NVan Val itavlicaelentye (VITSs)ec ee cee lbn a heya 
PiZ77e "Gi agus ) Vie Gy Vi ts3) 2, eee ee Febw2791576 
SHES om OOM Al ere eae eerie foe Nov. 3, 1876 


‘bamessVitirph yen. + ae ee et her tee Febs"l, 1877 


74 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Rose A. Murphy CVirs’) eo se 2 eas LUTICm reales er 
Asenath (Burnham) Kennerdell (Mrs.) Nov. 17, 1877 
Margaret A> BrownaGh its cy ew tes eet Feb. 28, 1880 


(At the time of the Centennial Celebration the names of 18 others 
would have had a place in this list all of whom have gone to their reward 
since 1922. One of these was Mrs. Myrtle (Thompson) Campbell, chairman 
of the committee who sponsored this history. She died December 26, 1928.) 


The others’ names are: Mrs. Lydia Schotte, Miss Emily 
Meredith, Miss Sarah Bowman, Mrs. Martha Anderson, Mrs. 
Margaret Watterson, Miss Alice Colwell, Mrs. Jane Shadle, Miss 
Esther Sloan, Wm. C. Barnett, Mrs. Sarah B. Barnett, Mrs. 
Margaret Taylor, Mrs. Emma Gault, John B. McKee, Wm. P. 
Hutchison, Mrs. Ada McCullough, Wm. Pollock, Mrs. Clara B. 
Stewart. 

In May, 1880, Mr. Ewing was called to the presidency of Par- 
sons College at Fairfield, lowa. This call was unexpected and not 
greatly welcomed. This having been Mr. Ewing’s first charge, his 
heart’s affections were rooted here and he had no thought of 
leaving. He did not reach a decision until he had made two 
visits to Fairfield and was satisfied that the opening was provi- 
dential. Even after his mind was made up to accept the call he 
carried a telegram of acceptance in his pocket a day or two before 
he could pluck up enough courage to send it. 

His last service as our pastor was held September 5, 1880. It 
was touching and melted the congregation to tears. (Effort has 
been made to secure the sermon for this volume but without suc- 
CeSce) 

Mr. Ewing left Kittanning two days later but the family re- 
mained till the next July. 

Mrs. Ewing was almost heart broken over going away from 
the church and people she loved and she was never able to come 
back. After a long illness she entered into rest September 12, 
1884. 

Soon after Mr. Ewing was settled in his new field of labor 
the degree of D. D. was conferred upon him by Washington and 
Jefferson College, so when we next saw him he was “Dr.” Ewing. 

He visited us many times particularly upon the great occasion 
of dedicating our church June 8-15, 1890, and to help celebrate the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 79 


25th anniersary of the Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society which 
he organized. 

After several years spent at Fairfield Dr. Ewing went to Corn- 
ing, Iowa, to take charge of a school and the pastorate of the 
church. His death occurred there July 31, 1905, in his 73rd year. 

Dr. Ewing was a forceful preacher, an able Presbyter, a good 
pastor and a true friend. Some of the older members of the con- 
gregation, who disliked changes, were’ never reconciled to his 
leaving us. 

A memorial service was held in this church on the Sunday fol- 
lowing Dr. Ewing’s death, but it seems no record of it was kept. 

Dr. Ewing was thrice married. His first wife was Miss Anna 
Graham, of Brownsville, Pa.; the second, Miss Anabel Rogers; 
the third, Miss Ruth VankKirk, who survived him several years. 
Three children of the first marriage are living. They are Mrs. 
Paul W. McClintock, Mrs. Wm. G. Blood and James F. Ewing. 
One of Dr. Ewing’s grandsons is in the ministry—a pastor in 
Texas. It is rather startling to see his name in print—‘Rev. JT. 
D. Ewing.” 


The Fourth Pastor 


REV. HENRY L. MAYERS, D. D. 
1881—1909 


After we had heard ‘“‘candidates’’ for several months Rev. 
Henry L. Mayers was called to the pastorate. He had been settled 
at Millville, N. J., but on account of ill health was recuperating 
at Princeton. His health was never entirely restored and yet he 
did a wonderful work here. The first stone church was his monu- 
ment and one which we thought would outlast all who made it a 
possibility. It was well he did not live to witness its destruction 
for as he himself expressed it, he “loved every stone in it.” Some 
think it would not have been burned if Dr. Mayers had been living 
as he kept a continual watch over it. 

He was installed as pastor of this church May 11, 1881—exactly 
17 years after Mr. Ewing’s installation. Rev. David Hall preach- 
ed the sermon. Rev. H. Magill asked the constitutional questions 
and charged the people. Rev. D. H. Sloan delivered the charge 


70 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


to the pastor. After this service a reception was held at the 
Reynolds House by Col. J. B. Finlay for the new pastor and his 
wife to which the friends of the host were invited. It was not a 
congregational affair. 





Henry L.. Mayers, D. D. 


The friendship between Dr. Ewing and Mr. Mayers was beau- 
tiful. There was no jealousy upon the part of either. Dr. Ewing 
frequently came to this vicinity on business and to visit relatives 
and always included Kittanning in his itinerary. Mr. Mayers 
fairly beamed when he learned that Dr. Ewing was expected and 
insisted upon his preaching every time. Our devotion to the 
former pastor was one thing which drew Mr. Mayers to us when 
he came as a candidate. 

The nervous strain incident to the building of the church was 
too much for Mr. Mayers and when it was lifted he broke down. 
He went away for a rest and Rev. Edward Bryan came as a sub- 
stitute. He was very acceptable to our people and many from 
other churches came to hear him. After several months’ absence 
Mr. Mayers returned and took up the work. In June, 1902, 
Washington and Jefferson College granted him the degree of 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 77 


Doctor of Divinity. June 12 of the same year he suffered a 
paralytic stroke while delivering an address at the laying of the 
corner-stone of the new Presbyterian Church at West Glade Run 
and was not able again to do full duty. “Supplies” filled the pul- 
pit much of the time, but Rev. W. S. Miller and Rev. W. A. 
Roulston each served a year as “‘pastor’s assistant”. Mr. Miller 
came for the mid-week as well as Sunday services. Mr. Roulston 
lived here during his incumbency. 

Dr. Mayers’ last church service was at a Communion about ten 
days before his death. He conducted the mid-week service the last 
night of his life, and very acceptably, but before day-break “‘he 
was not; for God took him.” 

That was on January 28, 1909. He was 63 years old. 

Dr. Mayers’ first wife was Miss Margaret Phillips, of Princeton, 
N. J., who died March 10, 1887. Several years later he was mar- 
ried to Miss Mary Irvin Brown, Dr. Painter’s grand-daughter. 
Two sons and a daughter of each wife are living—the first wife’s 
are in Detroit, those of the present Mrs. Mayers live in different 
places in California. 

Rev. John Orr, a retired minister, was living here at the time 
of Dr. Mayers’ death and he stepped into the breach. He con- 
ducted the prayer meetings and taught a men’s Bible class which 
has been named for him. Also sometimes the Session consulted 
him. He could not moderate that body, because he was a member 
of another Presbytery. He died after a short illness March 28, 


1910. 


~I 
CO 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 





Ju AMemortan 


THE REV. HENRY LOUIS MAYERS, D. D. 





FUNERAL SERMON AND ADDRESSES WITH 
RESOLUTIONS OF THE SESSION AND 
CHURCH SOCIETIES 


By the Session of the Church 


SERMON AIF REVSES aMAY BRowPUNERAL 
By Rev. J. S. HELM 


[ will not try to interpret the life of him who has gone from us. 
[ do not need to. He interpreted his own life. He lived so openly, 
so frankly, so sincerely, so earnestly, that all who knew him, knew 
what he was and what he meant. It was good to know him; it was 
an inspiration; one lived his own life better for it. For twenty- 
eight years | was more or less intimate with him, through them 
all his life grew on me. I ever saw in him new and admirable 
qualities; | ever received some inspiration, some help from him. 
| recall distinctly the winter | preached many Sabbaths for him. 
It was the first year of his pastorate here, my last year in the 
Seminary and our first acquaintance. He was for the time unable 
for his work. I think I could not have gone on with the duties 
that fell to me had it not been for the words of cheer and encour- 
agement he gave me again and again. And it has been largely 
true in the years that have come and gone since. He has been a 
help in many a time of need. 

| am quite sure that my experience has been the experience of 
others. I think | hazard nothing when | say it has been the ex- 
perience of many in this church, and in this city. I know it to be 
true of some beyond the lines of this church and community. 
They are the better for knowing him. He touched their lives and 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 79 


helped them. Out of his own cheerful courageous heart he gave 
words of cheer and courage wherever he went. Wise in counsel he 
knew the word to speak to make plain the way to take. Deeply 
sympathetic he could put himself alongside the tried and troubled 
and so make their burdens lighter for them. A man of strong 
convictions he stood firmly for the right, and when reproof was 
necessary he gave it, but so lovingly that it fell without. offense. 
What I see before me this afternoon makes it plain that he has left 
an impress upon you for good. These tear dimmed eyes tell me 
the place he has in your heart. You will see his face no more on 
the earth, but his spirit, his memory is with you still. These will 
have their influence. They will hold you a little more strongly to 
the right, they will lead you a little more closely to the Master, 
they will make you a little more faithful in His service. The 
vision of the Christ will be a little clearer to you, Heaven will be 
a little nearer and dearer. 

One of John Bunyan’s characters is Greatheart. That char- 
acter has always had an attraction for me, and | think he has had 
for all that have read Pilgrim’s Progress. We honor and love 
such characters wherever we find them. This man had a great 
heart; 1t was big and roomy. In it was a place for all, a very 
tender, loving place for those nearest him. I wish I might say 
something of the place his home had in his heart, and those that 
made it home. Sometimes he let it out to those with whom he 
was intimate, not intentionally, but it came out as the water from 
a full fountain. The home was his earthly paradise, from which 
he did not want to be long absent at any time. I wish | might 
tell you something of what this church was to him, something of 
how he loved it, loved you all. I wish I might tell you something 
of his plans and hopes for you, plans and hopes that showed the 
same spirit of self sacrifice that he ever manifested in his prayer 
for you, his words to you, his service among you. I wish | could 
speak of his appreciation of the Session of the Church, of the 
character of the men composing it and their loyalty to him. 
Brethren, you were a comfort to him. One of the things that gave 
him satisfaction upon the last evening of his life was the attitude 
of his Session toward him. Yes, you all had a place in his heart. 
It was good to hear him speak of you. He may have criticized 
you, looking into your face from this pulpit, but he did not criticize 


80 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


you out in the world. That he loved this city in which he lived 
sO many years was ever apparent. You recall how he fought the 
evil in 1t, how he sought its betterment, always ready with plan 
and effort. And what a place in his heart he had for the Presby- 
terian Church and her work. The spread of the Gospel was dear 
to him, whether among the foreigners of our own Presbytery, or 
in the needy places in it, or out in the broad field of the land, or 
across the sea, wherever there was a lack of the Gospel his sym- 
pathies were, and he did what he could to supply the need. And 
let me tell you one thing that was peculiarly his, and revealed 
most plainly the greatness of his heart. The weak, the needy, the 
inexperienced always appealed to him. The weak churches of 
Presbytery were his care. How he came to their aid with his 
counsel, his plans and efforts to help. The young ministers of 
Presbytery had in him a friend and counselor. His advice they 
often sought and never in vain. To say that Rev. Mayers had a 
ereat heart is to say much, | know, but is not his life a proof of it, 
is not this gathering today an evidencer Love is a strong center 
and draws widely. It is only a great love as manifest in a great 
life and work that could draw as he did. 

In all the relations of life Rev. Dr. Mayers held a high place. 
Wherever he touched his kind it was for good. He had an earnest, 
ardent nature; he was sympathetic, kindly affectionate, considerate, 
tactful. And in all his ministries among the people he used these 
qualities for their uplift, for their betterment. He was as well a 
very courageous man. In defense of the right, and in attacking the 
wrong he knew but little of fear. But always the foes of the cause 
he espoused, or the friends of the cause he attacked, respected him, 
for they knew he fought fair, and for the highest good. He was 
not simply a minister of the Church—he was that and with his 
whole soul—he was also the minister in the city. He knew the 
best interests of the one were served in the best interest of the 
other, and so he worked for the good of both. And the impression 
he left upon both will not soon pass away. His work in Presby- 
tery was always wise and tactful. In counsel he was good. He 
was ever the friend of the weak churches. The young ministers 
of the Presbytery turned to him as to a father for counsel. As a 
preacher he was good, his sermons were full of the Gospel and of 
the Spirit. As a pastor he was unexcelled. His hearty, kindly, 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 8! 


sympathetic, affectionate nature stood him well there. -His friends 
in the church and out of it were legion, and how warm many of 
them were! He drew others to him with strong bands. After 
twenty-seven years of an intimate friendship with him the writer 
can testify to the comfort and blessing of it. One may speak with 
reticence of the home life. This brother’s home was his earthly 
paradise. He loved it best of all, and he sought through affec- 
tion’s bonds to make it hallowed. Loving, he was beloved, trust- 
ing, he was trusted. How empty the home seems without him. 
He is missed in the church, he is missed in the city, he is missed 
wherever he was known. 

It is said of Enoch that he “walked with God; and he was not; 
for God took him.” His friends wanted him one day; they went 
to look for him, but they could not find him anywhere. He had 
disappeared, he had gone out from among them. They wondered 
about it; where was her They stopped to think for a moment. 
His life came up before them, that life of truth, of faith, of love. 
“Oh,” they said, “we know now. God took him.” And was not 
their inference fair, their conclusion logical? He had been the 
friend of God, he had walked in agreement with Him. Could the 
end of such-a life be anything but God?’ So this one went away, 
suddenly, in a moment. We went to look for him, we wanted 
him, his association, his helpfulness, but we found him not. His 
body was there, the earthly house in which he had tabernacled for 
63 years, but he was not there. That which made him to be the 
loving and beloved husband, father, pastor, friend, that was gone. 
Whither? Quick as a flash the answer came, God has taken him. 
He walked with God in the way; he lived by faith and love in 
Him, and now he is not here. His work on earth was done, the 
faith kept, God wanted him for other service and so took him. He 
bended over him in the night watches and kissed away his life. 

Take the last evening he was among you in the church and in 
his home and how this truth is emphasized. It was the evening of 
prayer. It has been told me in tender words of how fluent, how 
earnest, how happy were his remarks upon this book that has been 
to him the rule of faith and practice. [I have heard too of his 
cheerful, happy greetings at the end of the service, of his pleasant 
good-nights. He carried into the home the same cheerful, hopeful 
frame of mind. Shortly after arriving there he sat down and 


82 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


wrote a letter of counsel and advice to one of the young ministers 
of Presbytery. He took up a book and read for a time in happy 
enjoyment of it, then laying it aside entered into a conversation 
with his wife, a conversation that has left a memory sweet and 
dear. Past eleven o'clock he lay down to rest. Before two he was 
gone. It was an ideal end to a well lived life. “God took him.” 
Let us leave our thoughts there. It comforts our hearts. 


epee sR: Oe 


ADDRESS OF REV. M. S. BUSH, ON BEHALF OF 
KITTANNING PRESBYTERY 


A word of love and esteem for Dr. Mayers as a fellow Presby- 
ter do I bring, from the Presbytery of Kittanning. 


Dr. Mayers’ love for his own church was naturally most 1n- 
tense. But we who knew him in the work of the Pres- 
bytery can testify to his zeal for the cause of Christ at large. 
He gave unstintedly of his time and labor in this service. | say 
service, because he was a great servant and a wise counselor. Not 
given to argue technicalities in the Church court, he sought 
through wisdom to lead his brethren in the highest service. He 
had an ability, interest, thoughtfulness for his brethren in the min- 
istry. None ever came to him for sympathy or help, but received 
abundantly One of his last acts on the last day of his life was to 
write a helpful letter to a younger brother who had written him for 
counsel in regard to the work of the church. It was this service 
that made him great among us. He trod the way of the Master 
who said, ““Whosoever would be chief among you let him be your 
servant.’ Dr. Mayers was the servant of the church. He was 
the servant of the church universal. He was the bond-servant of 
Jesus Christ, the greatest honor to which man is heir. Yes, Dr. 
Mayers loved his own church but there was no selfishness or jeal- 
ousy in that love. To this, |, who labor in a field which in a great 
measure is a part of his, can truly testify. He rejoiced in the 
growth of the Ford City church and spent himself to save it from 
death, and make it a power in the Presbytery. Only the other 
day one of our Elders who had been with our church through all 
its trials, said, “Dr. Mayers is the man who saved our church.” 
He meant that it was his wise counsel and encouragement that at 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 83 


last brought success. This forgetfulness of himself is further 
shown in his preaching, this last year on Sabbath evenings in the 
West Kittanning school house. Even though it was taking his 
life-blood his great love impelled him to do that work so that the 
Gospel might be preached to all and the church control that strate- 
gic point in the future. To me he frequently spoke of the joy he 
had in that preaching. 

But this interest extended to the Presbytery and the church at 
large. Many of the brethren will recall the delight with which he 
spoke on the floor of our last Presbytery meeting concerning the 
new church at Templeton, and those of us who were with him the 
night that church was organized cannot forget the enthusiasm with 
which he entered into the work. Thus did he give the vital 1m- 
petus to that new child of the Presbytery. 

He was chairman of the Presbytery’s committee on foreign 
missions. And only last Monday at his urging | accompanied him 
to Pittsburgh for a Foreign Missionary Conference of the commit- 
tee of the seven Presbyteries of this part of the state. He was a 
leader there as elsewhere. He was much concerned that all the 
churches of Presbytery should meet the claims upon them of the 
kingdom of Christ in all the world. And shall we not believe that 
this desire of his shall be fulfilled, and our Presbytery rise to the 
need of the church at larger A great and good man has fallen 
among us but we most assuredly trust that the work he so skill- 
fully planned and at which he so earnestly and successfully labored 
shall be carried forward, and we as a Presbytery be permitted to 
gather the harvest from the seed he has sown. 


x ok * * * x 
ADDRESSEORSREVeka-Cr BOWLING 


Representing the Ministerial Association of Kittanning 


The death of Dr. Mayers touches most keenly a great many sad 
hearts; a great many sad and sorrowing homes. [For more than a 
quarter of a century he has been a conspicuous figure in this large 
congregation, as he went in and out before its people, young and 
old, “breaking unto them the bread of life,’ leading them and 
instructing them in the paths of holiness, peace and truth. 

During the same long period of years he has gone to and fro, 


84 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


in the town and county, ever evincing a deep and lasting interest 
in the things which make for civic righteousness and contribute 
to the well-being of the people and public in general; he was a 
man of the people and for the people. 

A representative citizen has gone out from among us, a de- 
voted pastor and faithful friend is now no more. It was no ordin- 
ary man that once dwelt in the tenement of clay now lying so 
silent before us. The eye that has now lost its luster not long ago 
sparkled with far more than ordinary light. The ear now so dull 
of hearing not long ago was quick to catch the faintest whisper of 
any one needing help in life’s trying hour. ‘Those hands and feet 
were ever busy and swift in the performance of many a ministry 
of sympathy, love and mercy. 

Dr. Mayers was a man of quick perception keen discernment: 
a careful, thoughtful student, of nature, as well as of men and 
means. Fruitful in resources, fertile in expedients, quick to dis- 
cover an error or ailment, and equally prompt to suggest and 
apply the remedy. He was a born organizer; a leader of men; 
tactful and diplomatic to a fault. His was a mind firm, resolute, 
and decisive, and his was a will power, almost imperial in its dic- 
tates. 


His long and eventful pastorate, and the fruitage thereof, so 
manifest on every side, proclaim him a minister of the Gospel of 
far more than ordinary talent and ability. This beautiful Temple 
of God, in the creation of which he was such a vital factor indi- 
cates clearly the executive ability of a master mind. The sub- 
stantial growth and standing of this congregation, throughout this 
long period of years bears testimony of the same fact. 


These great results came by no mere stroke of policy; nor were 
they the outcome of any happy turn of either fate or fortune. 
They must ever be regarded as solely the result of long, untiring, 
unyielding, self-sacrificing zeal and energy, coupled with good, 
sound judgment. 


But few persons in this vast audience are in a position to appre- 
ciate the hours, days, weeks, yea, even months of nervous strain 
required to accomplish what God has accomplished through this 
ever faithful servant. In season and out of season, well or ill, Dr. 
Mayers held the reins with a steady hand. He loved this church; 
he loved the people of this church. They were dear to him, “as 


Sa 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 8 


the apple of his eye.” He could truthfully say, “I love Thy king- 
dom Lord.” 

His place will be hard to fill. His relation to a great many of 
the members of this church, was more than that of a friend or even 
pastor, 1t was parent, fatherly. He had united in holy wedlock 
the young men and maidens of a generation ago; baptized their 
babes; watched with jealous care their coming up into the church 
and again a second generation stood before him at the marriage 
altar, and their babes of that second generation were baptized by 
him. “‘Blest be the tie that binds,” is surely fraught with new in- 
terest for some of you today. 

The hours spent at the bedside of your sick and dying long 
since could be remembered by thousands; and many indeed 
were the sad journeys he took with his people to the silent 
city of the dead. It was upon these occasions of grief, that he 
spoke his best words; words which have united his life with yours, 
for time and for eternity. He led you; he still leads on, upward. 
To you who remain today to cherish his memory, there should be 
no sweeter consolation than to feel that you have ever tried to aid 
and encourage one whom you felt was always willing and anxious 
to lift life’s burdens for you; even when his own physical condition 
made him unequal to the sacred task. 

I would say more. It is enough; however, that the fact that his 
brethren of the Ministerial Association, cherish most fondly his 
memory. His was a tower of strength in our midst. We some- 
times differed. Who would expect it otherwise? He had opinions 
and convictions, and maintained them too. 

We respected him in his sincerity. His ability as a sermon- 
izer and preacher scarcely needs a comment from my lips. The 
very fact that during all these years he held the pulpit of this 
church, with its growing wants, intellectually, even when battling 
with his own physical infirmities, shows him to have been of 
more than ordinary strength as a minister of the Gospel. 

If his ability as a preacher was excelled in any one character, 
it certainly was not in his almost phenomenal power of prayer. 

Truly a good man has gone from us. One whose influence will 
continue to live and linger long after all of those, who share in to- 
day’s sad ceremonies, shall have passed away. To the broken 
home circle, and to this congregation of mourners, we say, May 
the peace of God abide with you now and forever. Amen. 


S6 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


SERMON, OPSRE V sehet Gretta hele iOruNt. 


Preached in St. Paul’s Protestant Episcopal Church, 
February 3, 1909 


(Contributed by Request) 


“No Prophet is accepted in His own country.” 
—St. Luke 4:24 


In the description of Christ’s first visit to His former home 
town of Nazareth, we are told that after He had read the passage 
of Scripture which He had selected, and had taken His seat pre- 
paratory to teaching them its meaning, “the eyes of all that were 
in the synagogue were fastened on Him.” We can easily under- 
stand the reason why they gazed on Him so intensely, and waited 
so impatiently for Him to begin to speak. For it was no stranger 
who was about to address them, but One whom they had known 
from early childhood, and how, while He had lived among them 
had never aspired to be a teacher, but who, since leaving them a 
few months before, 1f reports were to be believed, had shown him- 
self in other places to be both a teacher and a worker of miracles. 
After He had spoken to them awhile they perceived that in one 
respect the reports which had reached them were not exaggarated, 
He certainly had developed into a teacher. “And all bore Him 
witness and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out 
of His mouth,” for they said, “Is not this Joseph’s sonr” It was 
very unwillingly that they acknowledged His ability as a speaker, 
and they resented the idea that one whom they had never thought 
would amount to much had somehow developed talent, and while 
they were compelled to admit that He had become a teacher, they 
would not believe the report that He could work miracles until they 
had seen Him work some with their own eyes. As usual, Jesus was 
able to read the unexpressed thoughts of those before Him. 
Abandoning the exposition of the Scripture passage, He addressed 
Himself to the minds of His former neighbors and acquaintances. 
“And He said unto them, Ye will surely say unto Me this proverb, 
Physician, heal Thyself; whatsoever we have heard that thou hast 
done in Capernaum do also here in thy own country.” By these 
words Christ meant that He understood perfectly what they were 
thinking; they did not believe that He had done the things which 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 87 


rumor credited Him with doing in Capernaum and elsewhere, and 
if He wished them to believe such reports the remedy was in his 
own hands, He could heal himself, all that was necessary was 
that He should do in their sight the things He was said to have 
done elsewhere. 

Now this was very different from the reception which Christ 
had been accorded in other places. Instead of being incredulous 
of His powers, people in other places believed the reports which 
preceded Him, and as soon as they knew Him to be in_ their 
neighborhood, came eagerly to receive the benefits of His healing 
powers, and to listen to His teaching. Why should it be so differ- 
ent in His old homer For the reason stated in the well known 
proverb, that no prophet is ever accepted in his own country. If 
He had come to Nazareth hoping that in His case 1t might be 
different, He learned from what He read of the thoughts of the 
people in the synagogue, that it was not to be so, the proverb 
would hold true of Him also. He recognized the futility of trying 
to influence them, quoted the proverb to them, and reminded them 
that illustrious prophets in olden times had done some of their 
most mighty works outside the borders of their own land, or 
among people of another race. 

Of course the truth of the proverb that a prophet is not without 
honor save in his own country and among his own people can 
never again receive such a convincing demonstration as it did 
when Jesus of Nazareth was rejected by the people of Nazareth, 
but it is constantly receiving fresh demonstrations. It is said 
that those who are close to greatness are generally the only ones 
who fail to appreciate it. It is hard to believe that anyone whom 
we have always known can really have talent. We hear of some 
one whom we have never known developing ability in one way or 
another, and we are entirely disposed to believe it; we hear it re- 
ported that someone we have known from youth has succeeded in 
establishing a reputation for ability in some other place and we 
disbelieve the report, or consider it a huge joke that people else- 
where should be so easily deceived. Had the people of Nazareth 
heard that a great teacher and miracle worker had risen in Bethle- 
hem, they would have been disposed to believe it and ready to 
eive him a favorable reception when he visited them, but when 
rumour made Jesus, the son of Joseph, their own townsman, the 


e8 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


doer of such things, they shook their heads and said that He might 
be able to impress others, but not them. Now why should these 
things be? Why is it just as truly the case today as it was at the 
beginning of the Christian era, that the people we have always 
known are precisely the ones whose worth we are most incapable 
of appreciating? It is due very largely to two things: we do not 
realize that genius is generally sporadic; and we are incapable of 
seeing things in their right proportion in the case of those we see 
much of. In spite of knowing that genius is sporadic,—that the 
men who have shown conspicuous ability in various lines have 
seldom been the children of men famous in the same way, and 
have not infrequently been the descendents of nonenities,—it 1s 
very hard for us to believe that the son of Joseph can ever turn 
out anything very different from his father. The exclamation 
“Is not this the son of Joseph?” tells the whole story. 

And the second reason why we are inclined to discredit re- 
ports, 1f true, would be a reflection upon our own power of dis- 
cernment. We do not like to think that anyone whom we have 
known well could have ability and we not be able to see it. The 
people of Nazareth had known Jesus as “the Carpenter’, and 
their estimate of Him was as a Carpenter, it irritated them to 
think that He should be able to get Himself believed to be some- 
thing more than a Carpenter. Their mistake was in supposing 
that they had ever really known the Man Jesus. As a matter of 
fact, they had never really known Him at all, and their long super- 
ficial acquaintance with Him really unfitted them for ever getting 
to know Him as others get to know Him who have never seen Him 
before. We think we know those we see often and over a long 
period of time, but all the time there may have been in them latent 
capacities and qualities which, while they were near us they had 
no opportunity to show, but which in another place and under 
different conditions, enabled them to accomplish results which 
we, because we never knew of those capacities, are inclined to be 
skeptical. We form our estimate of others upon the basis of the 
characteristics which we see, especially upon those which affect 
our relations to them, and such an estimate is often inaccurate and 
unjust. 

A proverb closely akin to that of the prophet not being 
accepted in his own country is that which says “Familiarity 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 89 


breeds contempt.” At the first sight it seems too sweeping a 
statement, we certainly do not despise all those whom we know 
intimately; but as stating a general tendency it is unquestionably 
true. No one is perfect; no one is altogether admirable; and the 
longer we know people the more certain are we to discover the 
particulars in which they are neither perfect nor admirable. 
Where true love, or friendship, or deep-seated respect reigns, such 
discoveries do not breed contempt, because we overlook them and 
let our minds dwell upon those qualities which command our 
respect and engage our affections. But where there is neither 
strong affection nor deep-seated respect, the tendency of familiarity 
breeds contempt, and this is especially apt to be the case 1f our 
minds harbor jealousy or ill-will towards such a one. In that case 
we fall rapidly into the habit of forgetting his admirable qualities 
and cherishing in our memories anything and everything which we 
have heard or seen to his discredit. The only way to maintain 
deep affection and respect for any of whom we see a great deal is 
to endeavor to think of their admirable qualities and forget the 
others. 

It is one of the most precious privileges of a minister to, for the 
most part, see his people at their best. They naturally show 
their best side to him, and then he comes in contact with them in 
matters and at times when they are really at their best, and least 
under the influence of unworthy motives. He does not have the 
same reason to come in contact with their less admirable quali- 
ties that those do who have business or other relations with them. 
In course of time he may come to know their less admirable sides, 
but he can generally maintain his affection or regard for them by 
thinking of the good side of which he, perhaps sees more than 
others. 

But while the shortcomings of many of his people are never or 
only imperfectly known to the minister, his own least admirable 
characteristics are sure to be more or less known, and not unlikely 
to be magnified in some quarters out of all proportion. [I am 
speaking now from observation rather than from experience, for 
the minister knows less than anyone else what is really thought 
of him, but he can readily observe what befalls other ministers. 
No preacher can do his full duty without offending some people, 
and they are naturally quick to see things in his conduct to 


90) History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


criticize, and eager to make the most of them. In the course of 
years, and in the faithful performance of various duties, it is 
generally the case that he adds to the number of those whose ill- 
will he has incurred, and has also added to the number of things 
for which he can be criticized, until, when all are taken together 
and made the most of by his detractors, they make a formidable 
showing, and as no one is particularly interested in singing his 
praises or recounting the admirable things he has done, there 
sometimes comes to be a semi-contemptuous estimate of the man 
upon the part of the public, which is grossly unjust and inade- 
quate; we become unable to see the woods for the trees, familiarity 
has bred contempt by preventing our seeing the things in their 
right proportion. 

As a general rule, when one attends a funeral of some promi- 
nent man at which addresses are made, one comes away feeling 
that rather too much has been said in praise of the deceased or 
the work, but that 1s what one expects upon such occasions. But 
I doubt if anyone came away from the funeral of the late Dr. 
Mayers with that feeling. It seemed to me, and I am sure 
that 1t must have seemed to many others also, that what was said 
and done was by no means adequate to the occasion. It was the 
funeral of a man who had been pastor of the largest congregation 
of his church in the county, for more than a quarter of a century, 
and who during that time had built the largest church of any 
kind in the county, and who had also made his congregation inde- 
fatigable givers to the mission work of his church at home and 
abroad, and who had at all times shown an intense interest and 
unflagging zeal in furthering everything which he believed to be 
for the moral good of the community. No community has so 
many good and useful men that it can afford to let a single one pass 
away from it without making the most of whatever was helpful in 
the example he set, and as one who enjoyed his friendship during 
almost half the time that he was pastor here, and who was con- 
cerned with him in a number of undertakings, and perhaps able 
to estimate him somewhat better than those who for years have 
heard all the mean little things that could be said against him, | 
want to pay a tribute to his character as | saw it. When I came 
here | found on the part of a good many that semi-contemptuous 
attitude, which as | have explained, is apt to result from the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 9] 


familiarity incident to a long stay in one place, and which in 
most cases was based on ignorance rather than on true knowledge 
of the man. My first meeting with him was when he came to 
my house to enlist my interest and help in starting the kinder- 
garten in this town, an undertaking for whose successful out- 
come he was in no small way responsible. From that time on | 
know of no undertaking for the common good in which. he was 
not actively concerned and ready to further to the utmost. In the 
course of many years and in the advocacy of the civic as well as 
personal righteousness, he naturally incurred the ill-will of a cer- 
tain element, but on the whole, the decent people of the commun- 
ity have reason to “love him for the enemies he made.” And | 
am glad that he lived long enough to see lawlessness suppressed 
in a quarter where years ago he had been the first to denounce it. 
If he erred at all in such matters it was through excess of zeal or 
defect of judgment. When the ambition of so many is pitched so 
low, we can well afford to honor the memory of one whose aims 
were unselfish, and for the common good as he understood it. 

To have conceived and successfully carried through the build- 
ing of a ninety-thousand dollar church in this place was a remark- 
able achievement, and testifies to the possession on the part of the 
man chiefly responsible for it, of courage, persuasiveness, execu- 
tive ability of a high order. And most men would have accom- 
plished it, 1f at all, at the cost of dropping for themselves and 
their congregation, all interest and participation in missionary 
work for many years, but he kept up that work in a remarkable 
degree as well. It was surprsing to me that none of the speakers 
at his funeral thought of the appropriateness of the occasion of the 
words inscribed on the tomb of Sir Christopher Wren. He was 
the architect of St. Paul’s Cathedral, London, and is buried there, 
and on his tomb are the words, “If ye seek his monument, look 
around you.” As the body of Dr. Mayers lay in the presence of 
his people, and in the church which he had prevailed on them to 
build, | thought to myself, “If ye seek his monument, look around 
you.” There will be no need:to erect a memorial in the cemetery; 
he built himself one 1n the town. 

When we see so much of others as we, in such a place as this 
naturally do, there inevitably results that familiarity, that close 
knowledge of each others characters, dispositions and ways that 


92 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


tends to breed contempt, if it be not watched. Endeavor to 
magnify the admirable, and minimize the unadmirable qualities 
in others. Let your conversation be that which is good, and about 
the good in people, that it may be edifying, and calculated to 
build up rather than tear down, the estimation 1n which others 


are held. 
* Ok & Ok Ok Ox 


MUNWDES“OP RH ES SESSIONS OR sd Fie eis. tee EL ies Beoree 
TERIAN ‘CHURCH OF KIT TANNING? PA. 
ADOPTED FEBRUARY 17, 1909 


Whereas, our honored and beloved pastor, Rev. Henry Louis 
Mayers, D. D., whose tireless and faithful services as pastor of this 
church during the last twenty-eight years have so endeared him to 
us all, has gone from among us, leaving our midst and his field 
of labor in prompt obedience, to the Master’s call, January 28th, 
1909; (laying down his duties of love and devotion in one hour 
and entering into the enjoyment of his reward in the next,) meet- 
ing the final summons when it came, so “like one who wraps the 
drapery of his couch about him and lays him down to pleasant 
dreams’: 


And wherezs, we feel deeply the loss that has befallen us and 
the church whose peace and growth in grace and spiritual activity 
has been so long the object of his labors and the subject of his 
prayers, and in the upholding of whose standard his latest 
energies were given until the end came, and he verily fell at his 
post; we feel deeply our loss also of a wise and safe counselor, an 
earnest pastor and a sympathizing friend. 

71 herefore, Resolved, That we bear testimony to his unwaver- 
ing devotion, untiring activity and well directed zeal and faithful- 
ness In the work of the Master; and we commend his eminently 
Christian life, a life of consecration and love, as a shining ex- 
ample of self-sacrificing piety. 

That we are touched with feelings of deepest sympathy in be- 
half of his sorrowing family around whom the sable umbrage of 
woe has gathered so suddenly; and would point them to the con- 
solations of the Master’s sure promise of a haven of rest, where 
“He giveth his beloved sleep,’ and who seems to have said to 
him, “It is enough; come up higher.” 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 93 


That as a testimony of respect to the memory of our beloved 
pastor the altar be draped in mouring for a period of thirty days; 
and that this testimonial be engrossed on the Sessional records and 
a copy thereof be transmitted to the family of our deceased pastor. 
PauL McKEnrIcK, 
E..TAYLor HUTCHISON, 
FINDLEY P. WoL FF, 

hax Wen, Cake 734 Committee 


IN MEMORIAM 


It is with sincere and heartfelt sorrow, that we, the members of 
the Pastor’s Aid Society of the First Presbyterian Church, of Kit- 
tanning, Pa., record the death of our beloved friend and pastor, 
Rev. H. L. Mayers, for many years the head of our society, and 
in doing so, we desire to express our appreciation of his services, 
given so willingly, faithfully and effectively in the interests of the 
society during all these years. And to bear testimony to his wise 
counsel, clear judgment, gentle yet courageous leadership, loyalty 
and devotion to this organization. The Society has lost its useful 
and honored guide, and each of us an ever faithful friend. 

On the morning of January 28th, last, Rev. Mayers, after a 
long and beautiful life spent in the service of his Master, was called 
to his reward in his heavenly home, there to receive the crown of 
righteousness as a true servant of Jesus Christ. It is true that 
“God moves in mysterious ways His wonders to perform,” but it is 
sweet to know that “Earth has no sorrow, that heaven cannot 
pure. 

To the wife and family of our departed pastor, our sympathy 
is kindly tendered. 

Mrs. TAayLor HuTcuison, 
ApDA J. BANKS, 
Ne Lii£ E. Hupson, 
EpITH C. WARNOCK, 
ce ee ER ee Committee 


KE osUilONS OFsgh bob EC 


Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God to call to his Heavenly 
Home our beloved friend and pastor, Rev. H. L. Mayers, D. D., 
from the very midst of an active life, in as much as he conducted 


04 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


our mid-week prayer service a few hours prior to his death, so 
suddenly the summons came, and 

Whereas, In his death, we the Industrial Circle of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, Pa., have lost not only a de- 
voted pastor, but to many of us, a life-long friend, one who has 
shared our joys and our sorrows, and has been a_never-failing 
counselor and guide, always ready to sympathize in times of 
affliction, and to give the comfort that sorrowing hearts so much 
need, especially in the fervent, tender prayers he offered in behalf 
of those bereaved. 


Resolved, hat we treasure in our hearts the memory of our 
pastor’s kindly ways, and strive to emulate his example in his en- 
thusiastic love for our church, and in all things pertaining to the 
welfare of the community, both at home and abroad. 


Resolved, That our sincere sympathies are tendered, not only 
to her who will so sorely miss him, in losing a kind and faithful 
husband, but to the other sorrowing members of the family who 
have lost a loving father. 


Resolved, That copies of these resolutions be sent to each 
member of the bereaved family. 
Mrs. O. N. WIxLson, 
Mrs. BRYMER, 
Miss AGNES BowMan, 
Mrs. R. W. MooruHeEap, 
Mrs. McKeEnprIck, 
Mrs. RUDOLPH, 


Committee Chairwomen 
Kk Ok Ok ok Ok 


WOMAN’S HOME MISSION SOCIETY 


The Standing Committee on behalf of the Woman’s Home 
Mission Society wishes to express its feeling of sadness and loss 
over the death of Rev. H. L. Mayers, D. D., our loved and loving 
pastor. He organized the Society during the early years of his 
ministry here; and was interested in and pleased with its suc- 
cess. The packing of a box for a missionary on the frontier was 
a joy to him and an occasion on which he congratulated the 
Society each succeeding year. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 05 


The Wyoming Mechling Scholarship was also dear to him and 
the other objects to which we contributed always commended 
themselves to him. His knowledge of workers and methods was 
accurate, and his judgment could always be depended upon. 

Although he has gone from us, we trust the work he put into 
organized form will continue as a monument to his consecrated zeal 
and energy. We sympathize with his wife and children, so sud- 
denly and sadly deprived of the presence and counsel of the hus- 
band and father; as well as other dear friends, all of whom sorrow 
but not without the hope of one day meeting him in that home 
above into which he has entered and is now enjoying the fruits of 


his labor. 
LypiA M. RoBINson, 


Mary Q. SLOAN, 
Mrs. GEORGE PEECOOK, 
Committee 
Kittanning, Pa., January 27, 1909. 


ze Raye et” Rs ey as 


WOMAN’S FOREIGN MISSION SOCIETY 


The Woman’s Foreign Mission Society is conscious of a great 
loss in the death of Rev. Henry L. Mayers, D. D., our beloved 
pastor and friend, and a liberal contributing member of the So- 
ciety. We are filled with sorrow, because we shall see his face no 
more and never again hear his kindly greeting nor his word of 
cheer and comfort. Yet we know that our loss is his eternal gain. 

Therefore our resolve should be to bow submissively and 
cheerfully to God’s will and do our best, God helping us, to carry 
forward the Lord’s work as he often outlined it, urged and advised 
that it should be done. Huis interest in the work of the Society 
was keen, and his pleasure at the results from year to year, was 
always shown. While he may have loved another society, more, 
he did not love this one less, and one of his delights both in the 
pulpit and in private conversation, was to refer to its organiza- 
tion by Rev. Dr. Ewing and the happy arrangement, by which the 
latter's daughter, Mrs. Rebecca Ewing McClintock became our 
Missionary. 

Our sympathies go out to the bereaved wife and orphaned chil- 
dren, and we pray that God who is the widow’s husband and the 
father of the fatherless may be their help and comfort. 


96 History of First Presbytertan Church of Kittanning 


It is characteristic of human nature to think much about our 
dear departed friends and the Bible sets the seal of divine approval 
upon this, in saying that “the memory of the just is blessed,’ and 
so we record the labor of love of this faithful ambassador of 
Christ, whose memory with us will be ever fragrant. 


JULIET ROBINSON, 

Mrs. JANE C. SHADLE, 

ALICE COLWELL, 
Kittanning, Pa., February 26, 1909. 


Kk ok ok kK ok 


IN MEMORIAM 


Rev. HENry Louis MAYERS 
Born December 29, 1847, at Millersburg, Ohio 
Died January 28, 1909, at Kittanning, Pennsylvania 


“Leaves have their time to fall, 

And flowers to wither at the north winds breath, 
And stars to set; but all— 

Thou hast all seasons for thine own, O Death!” 


What time could have been more fitting for the death of one 
so devoted to the cause of the Master, as our beloved Pastor, Rev. 
H. L. Mayers was, than at the close of one of the church services? 
Only a few short hours before he stood in the weekly prayer 
meeting apparently in the best of health. 

Truly it has been said, “He walked with God, and God took 
him,” but that would have been applicable at any time as his 
whole life was a “walk with God” and an effort to do His will 
and advance His Kingdom. 

Not only has this church lost a devoted Pastor, and each mem- 
ber a true friend, but the community has lost an upright and 
noble citizen; whose time, thought and labor were cheerfully spent 
in his efforts to promote the best interests of the people and to 
put down anything to the contrary. 

There was no pretense or veneer in his make-up. No one was 
left in doubt as to what position he intended to take. He could 
always be found on the side of right. 

It is fitting that we should spread upon the records of “The 
Woman’s Union” more than a passing notice of his death, and the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 97 


esteem and regard in which we held him; but the influence of his 
life work will be a perpetual testimony through the years and years 
to come, of the faithfuness with which he filled the offices of 
Pastor, friend, and citizen. 
We have been asked to extend to the sorrowing wife and chil- 
dren the sympathy of this society. 
NVIRS eon, V¥ a EGA Oe, 
Mrs. J. C. MoorHeEap, 
Mrs. LEE LAVELY, 


Committee 


RESOLUTIONS ADOPFED?BY=1HE=CONGREGALIONSOFR 
deere RS 1 PR BSBYLERVANSCHURCH OFS MLL 
Wikisz=N: Jo-ON VHESDEATH.OFR-REVe HENRY “LE: 
MAYERS, JANUARY 28, 1969. 


Whereas, God in His allwise and overruling Providence has 
taken from his earthly labors, our respected and beloved former 
pastor, Rev. Henry L. Mayers, therefore be it resolved by the 
congregation of the First Presbyterian Church: 


First, That while we accept with resignation this ruling of 
Providence, we deplore with all his friends the untimely death of 
this faithful co-laborer and ardent Presbyterian. 


Second, That in the death of Dr. Mayers we have lost a gen- 
erous friend, a genial companion and a wise counselor. 


Third, {hat we treasure the memory of his blameless Chris- 
tian life, his wise counsels, his faithfulness to duty and his zeal for 
the cause of Christ. 


Fourth, That the members of this congregation desire to ex- 
press to the family of Dr. Mayers a profound sympathy in their 
great bereavement, and that we earnestly commend them to our 
heavenly Father who alone can give them consolation which they 
so much need. 


Fifth, That these resolutions be spread upon the minutes of the 
church, and that a copy be tendered to the family of the deceased. 
JosEpH H. Wape, 
GEORGE S. DAwson, 
Millville, N. J.,.March 18, 1909. Committee 


98 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The Fifth Pastor 


REV eaWiMoe | LLU CHIS OND aL: 


1909—1925 


Rev. Dr. Hutchison was called to the pastorate September 26, 
1909, and installed November 3. Rev. M.S. Bush, of Ford City, 
preached the installation sermon. Rev. J. S. Helm delivered the 
charge to the pastor and Rev. E. P. Foresman charged the people. 
Dr. Hutchison came here from Wellsville, Ohio, to a difficult place 
a congregation without a church building, but he was equal to 
the occasion. For more than a year after his arrival services 
were held in the Hose House which was a poor but welcome sub- 
stitute for our beautiful, comfortable and convenient church. 





As soon as the new pastor became familiar with the situation 
he began work in earnest. An election for trustees was _ held 
November 17, 1909, and the former board was re-elected. This 
election was necessary before any practical effort could be made 
toward erecting another church edifice as the trustees could not 
legally perform the duties of their office. Their term had expired 
and an election (according to the provisions of the Charter) could 
not be held till November. Soon after that legal difficulty was 
adjusted, steps were taken toward erecting a house of worship.. The 
Church, which for some time had been living at “a poor dying 
rate’ for want of pastoral supervision, took on new life. Every 
person seemed interested and by the time the new church was ready 
for occupancy we were a united, enthusiastic people. There was a 
large accession at the first Communion celebrated in that Temple 
of Worship. 

Outstanding changes in the conduct of affairs during Dr. 
Hutchison’s pastorate were the adoption of a Constitution January 
25, 1911, which provides for the election of all church officials on 
the rotary plan for a period of three years each. The method of 
raising revenue was changed from renting pews to the budget sys- 
tem, members generally making weekly contributions. The hour 
for morning service was set at 10:00 instead of 11:0 o’clock, the 
session of Sunday School following. A printed calendar placed in 
the pews gives the order for the Lord’s Day services and the pro- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning OO 


eram for the week to follow. In 1920 the parsonage was bought 
at a cost of $17,000. 

















Rev. W. J. Hutcuison, D. D. 


During the World War the “National Defense Commission” 
made a request for our pastor’s services at Camp Dix, Brights- 
town, N. J., at which place he was a Volunteer Chaplain for three 
months. At a congregational meeting held July 6, 1918, Dr. 
Hutchison was released and the following letter was sent to Rev. 
Ford C. Ottman,.D. D., Executive Secretary of the Commission: 
“We will release Rev. Hutchison from his pastoral duties here for 


100 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


a period of three months, beginning on or about September Ist, 
1918. Our people are very glad that they have this opportunity 
to render an additional service to God and Country and believe 
that in contributing the services of Rev. Hutchison, they will do 
much toward advancing the cause of both in this crisis.” 


(Signed) Paut L. McKeEnrick, 
For the Session 
LAMONT BIXLER, 
Clerk Pro Tem. 


Dr. Hutchison returned after the Armistice was signed. Dur- 
ing his absence Rev. A. E. Curry, pastor of the United Presby- 
terian Church of Kittanning, conducted the morning services in 
our church and the evening services were held alternately in his 
church and ours. Rev. Walter Kennedy had charge of the mid- 
week services. (Here we might digress to record that the “Narra- 
tive’ for 1919 reported 75 men in the Army; 2 in the Navy; | 
Camp Pastor; Officers 6. Total in service, 84. In the Civil War 
and the Spanish-American War this church also contributed her 
full share of enlisted men.) 

To Dr. Hutchison’s genius we are indebted for the successful 
celebrations of our ninety-fifth and one hundredth anniversaries. 
He did not hesitate to ask dignitaries of our great Presbyterian 
Church to share in the program and was able to secure the Modera- 
tor of the General Assembly to be the speaker at one service during 
the Centennial. 

Dr. Hutchison graduated from Franklin College and Western 
Theological Seminary. He received his degree of Doctor of 
Divinity from his Alma Mater. He was employed here at a 
salary of $2500, which was increased from time to time till it 
reached $4000. 

Dr. Hutchison has been married twice—first to Miss Frances 
Adams, of New Athens, Ohio. The present Mrs. Hutchison was 
Miss Elizabeth Shimer, of Phillipsburg, N. J. Their daughter 
Elizabeth expects to find her career in the medical profession. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 101 





Rev. A. E. DRIGGERS 
Present Pastor 


102 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The Sixth Pastor 


REV. A. E. DRIGGERS, M. A. 
1926— 


Here we may be permitted to encroach upon the work of the 
next historian. Having accepted a call from the Boulevard 
Church of Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Hutchison was released from this 
pastorate, January 14, 1925. His leaving was marked by a re- 
ception which was largely attended. Every minister of the town 
—including the Roman Catholic priest—was present to bid the 
family Godspeed. 

A fine watch was given to Dr. Hutchison by the John Orr 
Bible Class and the women of the congregation presented Mrs. 
Hutchison with a purse filled with gold. 

After the pulpit had been supplied, for nearly two years by min- 
isters 'who served in various capacities, Rev. A. E. Driggers, of 
Atlanta, Ga., was called as pastor, September 18, 1926, and was 
installed November 26. Kev. B. B. Harrison, of Ford City, pre- 
sided: Rev. Dr. F. W. Hinitt, of Indiana, Pa., preached the in- 
stallation sermon; Rev. Basil Murray, of Appleby Manor, read 
the Scripture; Rev. Walter Kennedy, of Templeton, offered 
prayer; Rev. Dr. G. M. Ryall, of Saltsburg, gave the charge to the 
people, and Rev. Dr. R. M. Offutt, pastor-at-large in the Presby- 
tery, charged the pastor. A reception to the new pastor and his 
wife followed. 

This pastoral relationship was consummated by a coincidence. 
Mrs. Driggers, (who was Miss Grace McCutcheon before her mar- 
friage) and her husband were visiting at her parental home at 
Murrysville, in the adjoining county of Westmoreland. A mutual 
friend, knowing of the situation, recommended Mr. Driggers, who 
upon invitation came twice and preached here. A call followed. 
All things point to a successful pastorate. 


Elders and Deacons 


6) e-em em 020 


LIST OF ELDERS FROM 1822 TO 1922 


Name When Ordained Date of Death Removal 
Davide] ohnston- =.=... Aug. 31, 1822.......March 29, 1839 
sPnomass Hamilton 222; Aug. 31, 1822......Aug. 17, 1829 
ORT aroltichs eres. = 1A 1101-5 | al 5226 ae A prits7 6.51620 
Pigareted ortetie rie cINOV.. 14 9 1634 oe Ste ee July 6, 1837 
Chas. Montgomery ...... Viner 4 wlS3O meee ee us ewer os About 1850 
POU Tats POO aie? ayer S June 14, 1839._...... May 23, 1862 
Peele aRODINSON Ss nets: Aug. 12, 1841....Jan. 26, 1880........ April, 1842 
Jamess Ratrick? 8575-5 April 26, 1850....June 15, 1881 
a AN Nos ga Ca PLD UIC OME LO Jase ea nee eet eee teen Nov. 5, 1860 
ese Ouivlévae - a August, 1856 ...... Nov. 21, 1890 
Tonnes RopInsODs=.. 0 March 8, 1860......March 18, 1875....May, 1874 
Marcuse Hulings 222. Nate Neca OO einen eee nes eeceees (Resigned) 
Sept. 20, 1868 
Ve acinla ys eee ae March 5.8) S008 cep ie Lows eer Sept. 20, 1868 
Pe Ken Bowntans 2) ce March 5186022 Oct<7, 19112... Removed 
Jan. 15, 1897 
ha Cosel Ree ce Sept. 20, 1868.....Aug. 31, 1881 
James E. Brown........:..... Sept. 20, 1868......Nov. 27, 1880 
Wilt toh Sond AC Ks oe Nov. 6, 1869........ Aug. 25, 1907 
Jamess Martin “0020: PED er llee las James Aug. 28, 1907 
Geo. W: Doverspike......Feb. 11, 18772:.... May 19, 1908 
Robt. S. Slaymaker........ Pepa 1h ko/ fe Nov. 30, 1900 
Andrew Thompson. ...... Oct AS S85 ei ee Dec. 30, 1902 
hontemysCowals-2.52. Octet Ay Seb ae Sept. 21501912 
Findley P. Wolff..2.......<. CUI a Wl Ble Bie ee ar le a UNE Nov. 17, 1922 
Edgar M. Adamae............ Ta Lvarscopal Oe tes swetee oe Str aS 2 Sept., 1909 
ASUS Wade Pane] Aa BS enema ee UU yeeec rae Oona oe eco ee Aug. 8, 1903 
jonnel) Galbraith July 8, 1900........ March 1], 1922 
Otte Ne Walsontes oe vee eel HU eee tee ee oe 
NOONE HeLa WSON 1 Ses Parla 00 ee aC Ras eee 
James G. McCullough..July 8, 1900........ Sept. 5, 1924 
Robt. Heffelfinger ........ nef 2 A Me | 2, UR ee ter crea wre Sept. 15, 1909 
Pallet ovick enrick. Dep iat OUD a 


E. Taylor Hutchison....Sept. 11, 19065...... 
Wiel te ROWSE xetde: septs uldjal910) cs: 


104 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Name When Ordained Date of Death Removal 
Andrew Brymer ....:....... Sept. 13, 1910......May 10, 1917.....March 22, 1914 
Dra haekhudolpha ee, Dep teal o al 10 2ee 
R. A. McCullough.......... May leerol he June 26, 1916 
Wins hiabeardet eres Mayes OL Ieee Oct. 20, 1914 
Poa ohubertsa. ar. Med VelO,chol pecan 
Lact VOR ee ae ees Mayi1d,7FO 13s Sept. 7, 1926 
MesAS Samppell seen, June: 7, 1914 
DS Sire CK cate TWNee 2 eto toe 
Bamont. bixiei tos June 10; 1917...... 

(oa Wert OStC heen ene aay ADrilaz eeiOZ ee 

ASC rant ithe tae Burigl7a CMe es, 

le GheSar Verio tees April 28, 1922...... 
ELDERS 


It may be confusing to some to know why A. L. Robinson 
“removed” in 1842 and yet was a prominent figure in this church 
in later years and died here. But there is no conflict. Mr. Robin- 
son once left Kittanning and lived at Rural Valley for several 
years after which he returned but did not serve as an elder again. 

In July, 1868, all the Session resigned but some of the members 
were re-elected at the next election. After the rotary plan was 
adopted the elders “rotated” so rapidly that it is difficult to keep 
track of them so their names appear only once on the list. Some- 
times members of Session whose terms were expiring failed of elec- 
tion by only one vote and just as often they were elected the next 
year. 

DEACONS 


Deacons were elected several times but the records do not show 
that any but two were inducted into office till 1900. Since that 
time the following named persons have been ordained and install- 
ed: Guy Hollister, M. L. Bowser, Wm. Wible, E. T. Hutchison, 
Ree Ar McCulioushy Ee Re Lees el ro yinolandsolm psoneets nates 
Dargue, Jase Merstoneé= Aver: Cooks samontabixien shia 
McClure, Boyd C. Henry, Chris: Ke Leard;<-FM_~ Shubert; Gib: 
Dunmire. From this list we see that a number of deacons have 
been promoted to the eldership. 

At the meeting of Session at which it was decided to call a con- 
eregational meeting to hold an election for deacons, the pastor was 
instructed to appoint a certain number of young men to lift the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 105 


offerings and thus relieve the elders of that work. That custom 
has been followed ever since and all those who have taken part are 
to be commended for the orderly and dignified way in which they 
have performed their duties. 

And this calls to mind the customs previously observed in this 
part of the public worship. In the long ago “collections” were 
“taken up” only on occasions and for a certain purpose. Tall 
hats lined with bandana handkerchiefs were handed into the pews 
and the coins fell with a thud. In the second church velvet bags 
at the end of long handles were used for many years. Consider- 
able sleight-of-hand must have been necessary on the part of the 
elders to keep from striking the worshippers’ heads. Later, small 
baskets were substituted but when we came to the stone church, 
regulation plates were introduced. It may be difficult for the 
present generation to realize through what processes of evolution we 
have passed, including the small matter of receiving contributions 
according to an established rule. 


Communions 


Ot atm) 


Communion Seasons have always been important Occasions in 
this Church. In “‘the good old days” the pastor was “assisted”’ by 
a brother minister, usually, one from the Presbytery, who did all 
the preaching. A preparatory service was held on Saturday after- 
noon. On Sabbath morning (the word Sunday was not heard 
from the pulpit in those days) a long sermon, appropriate to the 
Occasion was preached. The “Lord’s Supper’ was celebrated in 
the afternoon, following an intermission of forty minutes. The 
“Table” which was merely a high bench, was placed between the 
pulpit and the pews and was spread with a fine damask cloth. 
Communicants sat on benches on either side and the elements were 
passed to each participant by the elders. The ministers officiated 
at one end of the table and a heart-searching address was given to 
each group. 

Another service followed at “early candle lighting’ and the 
season closed with a service on Monday morning at which infants 
were baptized. 

The distribution of “tokens” (mentioned in Col. Finlay’s and 
Mr. Mckenrick’s papers) was discontinued in 1857. 

At a meeting of Session held January 17, “‘a free expression of 
opinion of each member” was given and it was decided to submit 
the question to the members of the church. 

May 2. Each member of Session reported that there had been 
no objection to the change from any one whom he had interviewed. 
Therefore it was resolved that no tokens would be given out in the 
future and that notice to that effect would be announced from the 
pulpit. 

The first Communion Set was of britannia or pewter and con- 
sisted of a pitcher, (really a small coffee pot) two mugs, with 
handles, and plates. This was used until 1867 when Mrs. Calhoun 
presented a silver Communion Service of two beautiful tankards, 


‘ 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 107 


four goblets and plates. The plates with the addition of four 
others are still in use but the tankards and goblets were put away 
in 1904 when individual glasses were introduced. 

It was during Dr. Painter’s pastorate that the tables were done 
away with and at a Communion in connection with the meeting of 
Synod held here in 1861 Communicants first occupied the pews. 
A table was spread (probably for the Commissioners) but for 
convenience and to save time the “Boston System’”’ was employed 
for others who could not be accommodated at one filling of the 
table. The long table was used but once again. For years the 
middle blocks of pews were occupied by the Communicants and the 
spectators sat on the outside—thus dividing the “sheep from the 
goats’ —but there is no such separation today. If any present are 
not church members, no attention is called to their delinquency. 

All of us may not agree with Col. Finlay in his belief that “the 
present system is more devoid of the solemnity and impressiveness 
which the old mode was calculated to make on both Communicants 
and spectators.”’ By the present system all confusion caused by 
changing places and passing and repassing in the aisles is elimin- 
ated while the spectacle of all Communicants partaking of the 
elements at one time is both solemn and impressive. 

Every pastor has made minor changes in the method of ob- 
serving the Communion seasons. Dr. Ewing substituted a_pre- 
paratory service on Friday evening for the closing one of Monday 
morning. He was the first to administer the Communion on Sab- 
bath morning after the usual service. Dr. Mayers omitted the 
sermon on that occasion. Dr. Hutchison introduced the present 
mode of retaining the elements until they have been distributed 
when all commune together. 

Dr. Painter simply read the names of additions to the church. 
Dr. Ewing called those received on profession of faith before the 
pulpit. Dr. Mayers had those taken in on examination to occupy 
the front pews and asked them to rise with those received by letter. 
Dr. Hutchison asked all, no matter how they were coming in, to 
rise when their names were called. Finally it may be said that the 
Visiting ministers’ services had to be repaid which left us without a 
service several times during a year. 


108 History o} First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


OUTLINE OF ADDRESS BY REV. H. L. MAYERS, 
DELIVERED AT LAST COMMUNION SERVICES 
IN THE OLD CHURCH APRIL 20, 1890 


The Session at its recent meeting thought it advisable to notice 
particularly this Communion Sabbath. Such events may be made 
profitable and interesting by emphasizing them and to do this we 
thought it best.to send out the address which has reached you in 
your homes. 

I am deeply gratified today by the hearty and cordial response, 
as | look down into the faces of a large majority of the communi- 
cant members of this church. I am assured that you feel as the 
Session felt that this 1s an occasion which ought to be emphasized. 

We are standing today in a peculiar and interesting place— 
about to break ties which have bound us to a home where we have 
had untold privileges and blessings. Here God’s grace has been 
received and here we have been greatly blessed. The past is our 
assurance for the future. The old building is linked to our 
spiritual lives by many ties. 

Today will be a sad one for many of us. We miss from our 
homes and firesides some who have often come with us to God’s 
house and sat down with us at the Lord’s table. But they are not, 
for the Lord hath taken them. 

While their absence brings sorrow and sadness to us, yet even 
this has its elements of joy. They have passed over into the im- 
mortal life, under the guidance of our God. That they were saved 
and had the assurance of eternal life is a pledge to us that 1f faith- 
ful we shall be saved. 

Some of you have spent your whole lives in this church. Here 
you were brought in solemn haptism and given to the Lord. Here 
you worshipped, here you were trained and here you were born 
again. The old records of the church are especially interesting as 
bearing upon the relationship of the covenant. Today the 
strength and support of the church can be discovered back among 
the records of those who were brought here and solemnly coven- 
anted to the Lord. What a source of comfort to us as parents to 
bring our children and pay our vows to the Lord and feel that he 
is our friend and benefactor. 

I feel this day will be especially solemn to some of you whose 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 109 


lives reach back nearly to the beginning of this Church. You have 
grown grey in God’s service. 

This last Communion Sabbath will awaken some sad thoughts 
and tender memories. Here you have often been blest. Here you 
met your Lord and Master. That you have been kept by the 
power of divine grace, and faithful thus far will rejoice your hearts 
and encourage you in faithfulness to the end. This for some of us 
is at no distant day an.upper and better home. Their parting at 
no distant day will bring sorrow and sadness, and yet a solemn joy 
that in faith you can look up and cry “Even so, Come Lord Jesus!” 


This day can be made one of great profit and interest to those 
of you who are in middle life. To you, God has given many ad- 
vantages. If you stood where some of these older ones stand you 
would see the value of religion. If you would come with the 
wealth of the Union and lay it down before them as the price of 
this hope and joy you would be denied. This teaches us the value 
of religion as seen in its true light. Upon you will fall peculiar 
and solemn responsibilities. We have undertaken to build a house 
for the Lord. We show our faith and love in the way we look at_ 
this material structure. They are an abiding evidence of God’s 
dwelling among us. Let us go forth and meet duty and _ re- 
sponsibility joyfully knowing there is a full reward. 

And now a word to the young. Many of you are the children 
of pious parents. Some of you are in the Church upon your own 
confession of faith and others are almost ready to take the step. 
Let me impress upon you today, that no where else will you find 
such a friend and redeemer as in Christ Jesus. Make him your 
friend now and then all through life you will have him as your 
refuge. 


This last Communion in the old church makes a change for us. 
Change is all around us. The fading flower, the dying leaf, the 
withered grass and yet we are constantly looking for an abiding 
place—something steadfast and secure. We will go to the New 
Church to hold our future Communion seasons, but it will be the 
same Lord and Master whom we serve. Then the same table will 
be spread, the same ordinance administered and the same Lord 
confessed and worshipped and adored. 


But the change marks the road which we all are traveling— 
After a while there will be another change. Our translation will 


110 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


come and we will have a glorious season of Communion on high 
at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. This will be around the 
Throne and in the Divine Presence. There will be no crucifix 
there to know Christ. He will be there the Light of all men and 
the Joy of Heaven. 

Our prayer and hope is that these last days will prepare us for 
our last great change. To see the Father and worship him then 1s 
our hope and desire. 


Special Occasions 


6m 0< 


This church has had numerous “times of refreshing.” In the 
winter of 1857-8 when a work of grace enveloped the whole 
country, union services were held in the Episcopal, Methodist and 
Presbyterian Churches, twice in each church during several weeks. 
The first mention of the “Week. of Prayer’ is in the minutes of 
Session for December 20, 1859, when it was recommended that the 
congregation observe the second week of January as a week of 
united prayer for the conversion of the world. This was in re- 
sponse to an earnest request from Foreign Missionaries. The 
custom has been continued in this church ever since and has been a 
great blessing. 

While Mr. Geo. P. Hays was with us an unusual interest was 
manifested. His preaching was practical and reached the in- 
different. Mr. Ewing always sounded the evangelistic note as did 
Mr. Mayers, and both held special services frequently. 

The revival of 1876 was spontaneous—nothing spectacular 
about it. Neither preaching nor singing evangelist—no tabernacle 
and no appeal for money. Pastors of neighboring churches gave 
their services gratuitously and no doubt Mr. Ewing returned the 
compliment. A small chorus choir led the singing. Prominent 
in this group were Jennie Jack, J. S. Bowser, Joseph Painter and 
Sheriff Boyd who were supported by other good singers. 

These meetings continued for nearly three months and when 
brought to a close more than fifty had been “‘added to the church.” 

In March, 1893, Rev. Edward Smiley and Charles M. Alexander 
conducted union services in the Opera House. This singer was 
“Charlie” Alexander, who was a novice at that time but afterwards 
became famous in his tour around the world with Dr. R. A. Torry. 
In 1895 May. Hilton and his singer Tullar; in 1906 Rev. C. G. 
Jordan with Mr. Mitchell, and in 1907 Rev. Wheeler, also accom- 
panied by a singer, held evangelistic services in our church and 
under its auspices. 


112 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


In 1913, 1915 and 1920 union tabernacle services were held. 
After all these meetings there were large ingatherings. In 1913, 
100 united with this church and other churches received their share 
of new members although some of their pastors did not sanction 
the movement. It is hardly to be expected that all who united 
with the church under the circumstances should prove. valuable 
additions but the most of them remained loyal to their pledges, 
some of whom are still with us and among our most dependable 
members. On another occasion there was quite an accession from 
the Second Presbyterian Church of this place and the Mahoning 
Church, which were disorganized by an act of Presbytery. Ata 
meeting of Session May 4, 1900, the pastor of Mahoning Church 
and the Clerk of Session of the Second Presbyterian Church were 
present and turned over their records to the Session of this church. 
At the same time a letter from the Stated Clerk of Presbytery was 
read authorizing the Session of Kittanning First “to grant letters 
of dismissal to any remaining members of good and regular stand- 
ing, whose names appear on the rolls.” 


Sunday School 


So) m0 em 00 


To the articles previously written about the Sunday School 
only data of later years need be added. Geo. W. Doverspike had 
been Jas. E. Brown’s faithful assistant and succeeded to the super- 
intendency after the latter’s death, which office he held during the 
remainder of his life—about 28 years. After Mr. Doverspike’s 
death the ruling of the General Assembly was followed, which 
places all business of the school in the hands of the Session. Since 
that time a Superintendent is elected every year. This officer has 
two assistants who are promoted in orderly fashion as the term oi 
each expires. 

Mr. Doverspike’s death occurred in 1908 and it may be in- 
ferred that since that time as many persons have filled the Super- 
intendent’s office as are represented by the years intervening. 

In the long ago no instrument was used in Sunday School. 
Mr. Robinson or some other good singer “raising the tune,’ buy 
in course of time a melodeon was introduced. Later W. H. Jack 
led the singing. From time to time new features were in orde! 
until today the music is furnished by an orchestra under directioi 
of a leader in singing. 

“Will” Meredith and Barton Hastings were librarians who sel 
dom missed a session of the school. 

It is not known when the Secretary’s office was created. Gece 
T. Crawford conducted it faithfully as long as he was able. Mary 
Sloan was his worthy successor. Lydia Robinson, a teacher in 
the school for 61 years, was Treasurer for many years till death 
ended her work. Percy Potter succeeded Miss Sloan as Secretary 
- and Lamont Bixler, at Miss Robinson’s request, took over her 
office. Both of these officers have been elected every year since. 

Miss Sloan and Miss Robinson had received bronze medals 
from the State Sabbath School Association in recognition of their 
services of more than fifty years as Sunday School teachers. 

Graded lessons were introduced into the main school in 1911, 
and the same year the primary room was arranged on the “block 
system” with a teacher for each block. This was a wonderful 


114 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


change from the first days of the “infant class,” which was made 
up of a dozen or two small boys and girls seated in the front of 
the room on two low, circular benches made for the purpose. Mrs. 
M. A. Otto was the teacher. 

After this class had outgrown its meagre equipment it was 
moved to one of the rooms which had been built at the rear of the 
church. Elizabeth Stewart was teacher with Sarah Bowman as her 
assistant. Later Esther Sloan was in charge but when the new 
ways were adopted she gave up that class and took another. She 
was also Superintendent of the Cradle Roll Department in which 
all children too young to attend Sunday School are enrolled. In 
1912 a Home Department was established with Mrs. W. L. Peart 
as Superintendent. 

November 26, 1916, “Girls’ Day” was observed. On this oc- 
casion the school was entirely under the direction of women and 
eirls. Mrs. W. J. Hutchison acted as Superintendent and gave an 
illustrated talk. 

February 18, 1917, “Boys’ Day” was observed and a larger 
attendance was registered but the collection was not as large as on 
“Girls’ Day’. Girls’ Day attendance was 565 with gifts amount- 
ing to $48.25. 831 “boys” were present on their day and their 
offering was $45.75. 

Besides being self-supporting the school contributes largely to 
outside benevolent work. The income from legacies makes this 
possible although the weekly collections are highly creditable. The 
adult classes contribute largely to these. 

The enrollment in all departments of the school is about 500. 

In recent years a number of Adult Bible Classes have been 
organized and several Teachers’ Training Classes have been taught. 


SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS 


Alex. Colwell, John Kerr, James Mason, Jno. R. Johnston, W. 
W. Hastings, J. B. Finlay, Henry Painter, David Hall, J. Alex. 
Fulton, P. K. Bowman, S. S. White, Thos. McConnell, J. E. 
Brown, Geo. W. Doverspike, John D. Galbraith, Paul L. Mc- 
Kenrick, E. Taylor Hutchison, O. N. Wilson, Roland B. Simpson, 
Lamont Bixler, J. P. Culbertson, Russell Rudolph, H. G. Gates, 
Wiley Thompson, A. F. Cook, J. K. Eyler, F. M. Shubert, Harry 
J. Walter. 


The Choir 


{oO <o- ett) 


No records of the choir have been kept and few now living can 
tell anything of its early history. A. L. Robinson seems to have 
been one of the first choristers. He had a musical tenor voice and 
his daughters, Caroline and Josephine, were good singers, too. 
Others who were members of the choir at that time were Mr. and 
Mrs. S. S. White, who sang bass and alto respectively. 

In the late 50’s, Miss Nott, a professional musician and 1n- 
structor in music, located here and inspired lovers of music. She 
had a voice of such range that she could sing all the parts and was 
an accomplished performer on different instruments. One of 
these was the violin which in those days was not usually played 
by a woman—at least not in this country-place. After a few 
years’ stay Miss Nott went away and soon dropped out of the 
memory of all who knew her here. 

Mr. Ewing became our pastor during the Civil War when party 
feeling was running high. In his first Thanksgiving Day sermon 
he mentioned the doctrine of “States’ Rights” and characterized it 
as “insane”. Mr. Robinson, who was an ardent Democrat, 
although opposed to secession, was offended at this and left the 
choir. His daughters went with him, Mary being “organist” at 
that time. 

Mr. Ewing gathered together some young people who may have 
had good voices but they were untrained and made different music 
than the Robinson family had furnished. Fannie Orr played the 
instrument (whatever it was) till 1871, when Mary Robinson was 
elected by the Session to the position which she had left for her 
own reasons. Mr. Robinson’s anger against Mr. Ewing was of 
short duration and they were ever after the best of friends, but 
Mr. Robinson was never returned to the choir as leader. 

Mr. Ewing “directed” his impromtu choir till a leader was 
found. This was probably Wm. H. Jack, who was followed by 
S. F. Bowser. From this time for several years everybody’s 
memory is a blank. 


110 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The choir was not paid in those days and in all probability 
there was no designated leader so the singers sang or did not sing 
according to their pleasure. None of these were professionals but 
they had learned considerable by practice and really made good 
music which helped to “swell the chorus” in the church services. 

About this time Jennie Jack began to attract notice. She was 
the “sweet singer” of that day. Her voice was natural, not having 
been spoiled by cultivation. In a chorus it could always be dis- 
tinguished by its shrill quality and she articulated every word as 
distinctly as though it was spoken.. She sang without any effort, 
melody flowing forth when she opened her mouth. During the 
revival of 1876 she sang every night and with her wonderful voice 
told “the old old story” in song. Of the number who sang with 
her in that choir, few, if any are living. 

In later years Emma Rumbaugh and her sister Mollie( now 
Mrs. Chas. J. Moesta), Mrs. Alex Montgomery, Sheriff Boyd, J. S. 
Bowser and others were helpful additions to the choir. It would 
be impossible to record the names of all who have sung with the 
choir, or even to recall many of them, but a few who were members 
in more recent years and are still here are Mrs. J. K. Eyler, Mrs. 
Paul McKenrick and Mrs. George Bayne. On several occasions 
an impromptu choir of young folks filled the places of those who 
wanted a vacation. 

And last, but by no means least, O. N. Wilson, who not only 
sang, but was choir director and for years was the choir’s official 
representative from the Session. 


INSTRUMENTS 


The first one to be used in church services was a small melodeon 
which made a disturbance out of all proportion to its size. This 
was the personal possession of Josephine Robinson and she played 
it. Later a harmonium was bought which was used in Sunday 
School also. Still later a reed organ was provided for the church 
auditorium and a melodeon for the school. 

In 1879, a pipe organ was installed. It was built in a corner 
beside the pulpit and was pumped by hand. (A number of 
prominent men—some of them elders 1n this church and elsewhere 
today—had their first lessons in instrumental music at that pump 





History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 117 


handle.) The new organ was used first at a meeting of Synod 
and was played by Miss Mary Jenks of the faculty of Blairsville 
College. 

Miss Ehzabeth Stewart was organist at the time, but she had 
had no experience with a pipe organ and was loathe to make a be- 
ginning before that august body. 

This organ was taken to the new church and used there till 
1905 when a larger one was built into the space which was entirely 
too large for the old organ. It was sold to a church in Lorain, 
Ohio. The new organ and two pianos, also the melodeon were 
fuel for the flames which destroyed the church in 1909, 

In 1900 the “Copley Quartette’ was engaged. Mabel as 
soprano; Gertrude, alto; Paul, tenor; “Will”, bass. Mabel (who 
in the meantime had become Mrs. Jas. M. Stone) was choir direc- 
tor for seven years. In 1901 Elizabeth Stewart moved away and 
Gertrude Copley succeeded her as organist until after her marriage 
to J. B. McClelland, who also had been a member of the choir. 
After Mrs. McClelland left Ilma Fox was elected organist which 
position she has filled faithfully for more than 20 years. 


(Mabe MOINES Nb aE dele (ON xe 


Miss ILMA Fox, Director 


Mrs. Jos. N. HENDERSON FRANK J. ATKINS 
Mrs. B. Craire Lis L. C. SARVER 


Women’s Societies 


086) ae 0 > 0 em (084 


Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society 


“The Kittanning Auxiliary of the Woman’s Foreign Missionary 
Society of the Presbyterian Church” was organized November 28, 
1873, by the pastor in the presence of these 17 women, with their 
approval and promise of support, viz: 


Mrs. JOHN V. PAINTER Mrs. R. S. SLAYMAKER 
Mrs. H. H. CALHOUN Mrs. J. G. CUNNINGHAM 
Mrs. Guy MECHLING Mrs. R. E. BRown 

Mrs. ANNIE E. Brown Miss FLopiE Orr 

Miss FANNIE ORR Miss Lou LEE 

Mrs. S. M. GRAHAM Miss LypiA BOWMAN 
Mrs. Geo. T. CRAWFORD Miss Lizzie STEWART 
Miss ALICE COLWELL Mrs. J. G. Parr 


Mrs. WILSON SPEER 


A Constituton and By-Laws were adopted and the following 
officers—called a Board of Managers—were elected, viz: 


President - - - - - Mrs. W. REYNOLDs 
First Vice-President - - Mrs. H. H. CaLHoun 
Second Vice-President - Mrs. T. C. MCCULLOCH 
Third Vice-President .- - - Mrs. R. E. Brown 
Fourth Vice-President - Mrs. Geo. IT. CRAWFORD 
Rec. Secretary - - - Mrs. J. G. CUNNINGHAM 
Cor Secrelary “1a te BVI RST le De EWING 
dreasurer Ming Sy ieee VAISS 2 SOURLISEE 


(afterwards Mrs. W. H. McConnell) 


Managers 


Mrs. SAMUEL CRAWFORD Mrs. Guy MECHLING 
Mrs. WILSON SPEER Miss ALICE COLWELL 
Miss Lyp1iA BOWMAN Miss DIANA WHITESELL 


Miss JANE GALBRAITH Miss Lizzie McCoNNELL 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 119 


Of the seventeen members who founded the society only five are 
living, Mrs. Geo. Crawford and Mrs. Slaymaker here; Mrs. Annie 
Brown, Los Angeles; Mrs. Lydia Graham, Uniontown, and Miss 
Stewart, Greenville. Of the first Board of Managers, Mrs. Geo. 
Crawford and Miss Galbraith only are left. If this history had 
been compiled in 1922 Miss Alice Colwell’s name would have been 
written in both these lists, for she was a faithful member and officer 
of the society. She died January 10, 1925. 

Mrs. Reynolds moved away during the first year and Miss Mc- 
Connell declined to serve. Mrs. B. H. Luker and Miss Flodie Orr 
were elected to fill these vacancies. This Board was re-elected by 
acclamation at the end of the first year. After that there were 
changes in the personnel of the Board but no radical ones. They 
were usually made because an incumbent in office asked to be re- 
lieved. Three years after the Society was organized Mrs. George 
Kron was elected on the Board as vice-president. She was a 
daughter of Samuel and Mary Matthews, charter members of this 
church and into the missionary work she brought her deep religious: 
experience and wonderful consecration. A woman’s prayer meet- 
ing had been the outgrowth of the Missionary Society and it was in 
one of these gatherings and in Mrs. Kron’s heart that the revival of 
1876 began. This revival was not “worked up.” It was prayed 
down and 1s precious in the memory of all who passed through it. 
The prayer meetings were held in Mrs. Ewing’s parlors until the 
rooms would not accommodate all who wished to attend, so the 
place of meeting was changed to the Sunday School room of the 
church. This was an unfortunate move. The place was big and 
barren and the “homey” feeling was entirely wanting. It was not 
long till attendance fell off and yet the woman’s prayer meeting 
was not given up till after the church burned. A faithful few 
kept it alive, one of whom was Mrs. Samuel Crawford. 

On account of an accident which befell her the evening before 
the fire occurred she was never again able to participate in church 
activities so her work and the prayer meeting ended together. | hece 
meetings which had dwindled to “two or three” were a source of 
great blessing to our church and it is deplorable that they should 
have been so lightly esteemed and allowed to die. They were held 
every Saturday afternoon—the first Saturday of the month being 
under the direction of the Foreign Missionary Society and the 
third led by the Home Mission Society. 


120 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 





Mrs. Crawford was president of the Foreign Missionary Society 
longer than any other person and had a place on the Board of 
Managers continuously from the organization of the Society until 
her death which occurred in April, 1910. 

It would only be fair in this connection to give the names of 
all the others who served the society faithfully but no roll is avail- 
able and to omit any, might lead to the belief that the omission 
was intentional. 

This society was organized in November -and for a number of 
years the work was finished up and the annual reports were read 
at a public meeting as nearly as possible on the anniversary day. 
But the reports did not coincide with those of the ecclesiastical year 
and to avoid this conflict it was thought best to make a change. 
So the Board of Managers called a meeting of the society. Every 
woman in the church received a written invitation and the response 
was general. After a program the object of the meeting was stated 
and by a vote the society’s year was changed to coincide with the 
church’s year. 

The first three missionaries supported by the Foreign Mission- 
ary Society were Mrs. Eckard in China, Mrs. Johnson in India, 
and Mrs. Judson in China. During the time of our contract with 
Mrs. Judson it was learned that Rebecca Ewing, a daughter of our 
beloved former pastor and his consecrated wife, was under appoint- 
ment to go as a foreign missionary. When this news was told to 
Dr. Mayers he suggested that we adopt her as our missionary. Of 
course, his suggestion was acted upon at once and having been able 
to make the necessary preliminary arrangements this daughter of 
our church (having in the meantime been married to Rev. Paul 
McChntock) became our “special object.” 

After several years spent on the island of Hainan Mr. Mc- 
Clintock’s health failed and they were compelled to give up their 
cherished work and return to America. In course of time he re- 
covered sufficiently to engage in some form of ministerial labor but 
all hope of going back to Hainan had to be abandoned. (At the 
time of this writing they are living in Germantown, Pa. This 
item, as well as the one concerning the location of the Brown 
family, does not properly belong in this narrative as their present 
circumstances developed after we passed the century mark. Both 
items are inserted for giving the information to those who may not 
have it.) 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 12] 
= v o 


The next arrangement was most satisfactory as the missionary 
assigned to us is—Mrs. Geo. F. Browne, who went from. Rural 
Valley and some of us knew her as Miss Irene Cowan. She and 
her husband with their children were in this country on furlough, 
when disturbances in China prevented their return and for the 
present they are located in Wooster, Ohio. The money which 
would have been paid on Mrs. Browne's salary, goes direct to the 
Board of Foreign Missions. 

For 45 years the Socety’s share of our missionary’s salary was 
raised by a personal canvass, the Board of Managers making house 
to house visits and collecting the members’ pledges, but with the 
New Era Movement a change was made by which the money is 
provided for in the budget and paid out by the treasurer of the 
Session. The Sunday School has always paid part of the salary, 
and the Industrial Circle has been helping for several years. The 
Pastor’s Aid Society when in existence also contributed to it. 
Since the Assembly’s Board took over all contributions from Sun- 
day Schools the money from our school is not credited to the society 
although it 1s counted in on our pledge. 

Elections used to be conducted by the pastor and voting was 
done by ballot but several years ago the Constitution was amended 
to read as follows. “If after due notice of an election has been 
given the constituency of the Society does not respond, the Board 
of Managers shall remain in office another year.” The Board 
usually “remained” but not until after an effort had been made to 
hold an election. 

Resignations, removals and deaths have made marked changes 
so that the original Board has practically disappeared. They were 
only representatives—TI his society was the first one of its kind in 
our church and Rev. Dr. Ewing deserves all the credit for laying 
the foundation of what grew to be a great work. With patience 
he taught the women how to conduct their meetings and met with 
them until they were able to stand alone. 

The Pioneer “Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society” blazed 
the way for other societies all of which have done a good work 
along different lines. 


War History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Woman’s Home Mission Society 


The history of the Home Mission Society is bound up in that of 
the Foreign Society, because the majority of the members are the 
same in both societies, but they are under different management 
and work for different objects. At first the Home Society was 
merely a group of women who worked together without any rules 
or regulations but their work was done methodically after a Con- 
stitution was adopted in 1888, which provided for a board called 
the “Standing Committee” who were made responsible for the 
work. The society then became auxiliary to the “Woman’s Execu- 
tive Committee” afterwards the ““Woman’s Board of Home Mis- 
sions,’ but now a division of the “Board of National Missions of 
the® Presbyterian -@hurch Umsw Ag 

At first their principal effort was directed toward sending a box 
every year to a Home Missionary but in 1914 societies were in- 
structed to furnish no more boxes as the missionaries’ salaries 
would be increased, thus eliminating the necessity for boxes. 

This order caused great disappointment to many, especially 
those who wanted to help ease the privations of the frontier mis- 
sionaries, many of whom did not. have the necessities of life 
which make for comfort. The plan of preparing these boxes was 
like this. Having received from the N. Y. office the name of a 
family who were entitled to a box correspondence was opened 
with the wife to learn what was most needed or would be most 
acceptable in case all of their wants could not be supplied. A 
suit of clothes for the missionary anda good dress for his wite 
were always sent besides other clothing for them as well as the 
whole family. The boxes were splendid—containing such valu- 
ables as bedding, table linen, silver, etc. One good woman asked 
for dishes as she did not have enough to set a presentable table 
when traveling ministers visited them. A whole set was ordered 
and shipped from our local pottery. Another asked for a carpet 
and a slightly used Brussels rug was donated. The money value 
of these boxes was by no means small but the joy they gave to the 
recipients was sufficient compensation to the donors for their out- 
lay of time and labor. After the sending of missionary boxes was 
discontinued the society took up a similar work for hospitals and 
schools, making garments besides sending supplies for domestic 
use. These too were valuable and greatly appreciated. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 123 


A pledge of the society is the annual payment of $75.00 on a 
scholarship in a school for Mountaineer girls at Hot Springs, N. C. 
This scholarship is a memorial to Mrs. Wyoming Mechling and is 
named for her. She was president of the society at the time of 
her death in 1893. Mrs. Mechling was a lovable woman and a 
devout Christian and had given of her best to the success of the 
society. : 

Other work in which the society has engaged is sending barrels 
and more barrels of second-hand clothing to the colored people 
and mountaineers of the South, and helping finance the work 
among foreigners in our Presbytery. Also Park College received 
good barrels of second-hand clothing. In 1917 the method of rats- 
ing money was changed from that of personal solicitation to the 
envelope system by which each member was asked to make a defi- 
nite monthly pledge. Whether all adopted this plan or not is not 
known. Since 1919 the money is paid into the church budget and 
disbursed by the Session. 

During Mr. Roulston’s stay he conducted a Mission Study 
Class teaching from the book used at that time in the interest of 
Home Missions. Sometimes such a study was used in both so- 
clety’s meetings, by the members, each society using its own book. 
At one time Mrs. Peart taught a Foreign Mission Study Class. 


The first officers of the Home Mission Society were: 


President - - - -- =Mrs. W. B. MEREDITH 
Vice-President - - - Mrs. Guy MECHLING 
Secretary - - -  - Muss JULIETTE ROBINSON 
Treasurer - -  -  - Mrs. G. W. DoverRsPIKE 


All have “passed over’ except the Secretary. 


Offices were filled later by the following: 


ToT asT CT ee ee ne a VI RS th a LAYMAKER 
Secretary - - -  - Miss Lypia RoBINson 
NECA ee ee ee VRS CYDIA OCHOTTE 


These, too, are all gone but Mrs. Slaymaker. 


The writer can testify to the devotion and conscientious service 
of all these good women. And not these alone. But “the time 
would fail me to tell” of the others who did as good work but in a 
quieter way. 

Perhaps as good a way as any for closing the history of these 


124 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


two societies, which are so closely interwoven would be by quoting 
from a report of the Foreign Missionary Society on an anniversary 
occasion. The words might be applicable to any society at any 
{itne: 

“This has not been a perfect society. It could not be and par- 
take of the human elements which compose it. But we lay our 
faults and our misunderstandings with our services upon God's 
altar knowing that he will forgive our shortcomings as well as 
accept our offerings believing that at the last Great Day we shall 
hear the Master say ‘Well done!’ ‘She hath done what she 
Coulda. 

In this connection the beginning of woman’s work in the Pres- 
bytery may be mentioned. 

In April, 1874, the Presbytery of Kittanning appointed a com- 
mittee to make arrangements for a missionary convention. The 
convention was called to meet in Apollo, June 17, 1874. This 
Was a very enthusiastic meeting at the close of which a committee 
of fifteen women was appointed to take charge of the work. Our 
pastor’s wife, Mrs. T. D. Ewing, was made chairman of that com- 
mittee, which was selected from all over the Presbytery. 


Six missionary societies had been organized in local churches 
prior to that time, viz: Marion Center, October, 13715, Elders 
Ridge, January, 1873; Brady’s Bend, March, 1873; Kittanning, 
November, 1873; Leechburg, January, 1874; Freeport, April, 1874. 

During 1874 thirty-one auxiliaries were organized in_ the 
Presbytery. Apollo heads this list alphabetically and no doubt 
was Inspired to take the step because of the enthusiasm which 
Was aroused at the convention which had been held in that church. 


Rayne and Currie’s Run were organized in 1875. The dates 
of organization are not given in the record for Homer City, Mid- 
way, Mount Pleasant, Plumville, Rockbridge and Tunnelton. All 
these were Foreign Missionary Societies. When Home Mission- 
ary work was taken up in the Presbytery some societies united their 
work, while a goodly number organized an additional society. In 
nearly all the churches in the Presbytery societies have united now; 
only a very few retaining two. 

In 1880, Rev. T. D. Ewing having been called to another 
field, Mrs. Ewing resigned her Presbyterial office which she had 
filled so acceptably. Mrs. T. B. Elder, who was one of her co- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 125 


workers, had this to say about her: “She had rare tact for organ- 
ization and general management and was most admirably quali- 
fied with voice and manner to preside at popular meetings and 
commend the cause to the general public. But our loss was only 
others’ gain as all her zeal and activity in missionary work were 
but transferred to another field. It was written of her by an 
eminent minister near her western home after her death that al- 
though her life was not lived out to the full it was lived beauti- 
fully and well.” 

Ten years after Kittanning Presbyterial was organized it met 
again at Apollo at which time a revised constitution was adopted. 
With this procedure the committee was succeeded by officers elected 
for three years. Mrs. H. Magill was the first president. Our own 
Mrs. Samuel Crawford filled the president’s office for one term. 

In the summer of 1881 a committee of Presbytery appointed 
nine women as a Presbyterial Committee of Home Missions. 
This committee met at Elder’s Ridge and organized by electing , 
Mrs. D. J. Irwin, President. In 1882 and 1883 the society re- 
ported a number of prosperous separate societies. In 1884 the 
Presbyterial first walked alone and in 1885 an election of officers 
resulted in Mrs. Eva G. Thompson for President. She held the 
office for several years and only those who had the privilege of 
working with her know what a tower of strength she was. 

This society ceased to exist as a separate society in 1922 when 
the union of the two Presbyterial societies was effected with Mrs. 
D. B. Taylor as President. The constitution adopted at that time 
provides for an election of officers every three years. 


Pastor’s Aid Society 


March 25, 1896, the Woman’s edition of the Kittanning |1imes 
was published jointly by the Pastor’s Aid and Christian Endeavor 
Societies. 

Records of the P. A. S. cannot be found but from the Women’s 
Edition it is learned that “sometime during 1883 our pastor waited 
upon seventeen or eighteen young women of the congregation and 
consulted them on the subject of organizing a young women’s 
society, the object being; first their own spiritual welfare and 
Christian training; second to aid the pastor in any work that would 


126 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


be beneficial to the church, and the name of “‘Pastor’s Aid Society” 
was given to it. 

Each member pledged herself to take some part in the weekly 
meetings, 1f only one short sentence of prayer. The ones who made 
this promise are among our leading church workers today. Oh, 
what a trial it was! With what fear and trembling we wrestled 
with our duty and how often we failed and broke down. Some- 
times while singing an impressive hymn even the little old melodeon 
would fail in sympathy with us. Want of space will not permit us 
to speak of all the good work done by the society, but the first was 
to take a scholarship in Scotia Seminary at Asheville, N. C. No 
lack of interest in the numerous and varied workings has been 
manifested by the members. ’’ 

This was the first society in our church to combine social en- 
deavor and missionary work. Mrs. Bird Smith was the first presi- 
dent. She married and went away soon after the society was 
organized but she left worthy successors and for many years this 
society was an asset to the church. 

A sick girl had been reported to the Benevolent Committee who 
investigated and found her in an advanced stage of tuberculosis. 
The committee relieved her immediate wants and looked after her 
as long as she lived. Still more, they interested others in_ her. 
One kind woman sent her dinner every day and no doubt this good 
meal built up the girl’s strength and prolonged her life. 

Mr. Mayers visited her and was able to lead her into “paths of 
peace.’’ From a cross, rebellious creature, she was changed into a 
trusting Christian and died “the death of the righteous.” 


The Pastor’s Aid Society did many kind acts for her and after 
her death dressed her for her burial and bore the expenses of her 
funeral. And this is only one example of their humanitarian 
work. 


The large window in the parlor of the former stone church, 
accredited to “The Young People of the Church” was really pro- 
vided by the Pastor’s Aid Society and was intended as a tribute to 
their pastor and friend, Rev. Henry L. Mayers, but he outwitted 
them by having his name omitted from the inscription. 

In 1914 the society put a window into the Templeton Church 
as a memoral to Dr. Mayers. A subscription made to the Building 
Fund of the former stone church was paid largely in money earned 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning Cay 


by the members by work of their hands. A dime was given to 
each one and she was expected to make it grow. The methods em- 
ployed to accomplish this were original and by no means easy 
work. At the close of the campaign, experiences of the workers 
were recounted at a “public meeting” and furnished much amuse- 
ment. The amount realized was $300.00. 

The Session had supervision of this society as is shown by the 
Sessional records. When Dr. Mayers felt that the members ought 
to go into other missionary work the society was disbanded and 
another “Pastor’s Aid Society” of younger women was formed. 
This lived for several years but seemed to die a natural death not 
long after the present church was built. Perhaps Dr. Mayers’ per- 
sonality had much to do with the success of both societies as they 
were his special care. A part of their program was a prayer meet- 
ing at seven o'clock every Monday evening. 


Industrial Circle 


The Industrial Circle was organized in 1905 but early records 
are missing. The constitution of the society is elastic and per- 
mits of work being done under direction of the National and For- 
eign Missionary Boards of the Presbyterian Church as well as 
local work when opportunity offers. The mantle of the 
'Pastor’s Aid” seems to have fallen upon the “Circle” as the 
methods employed by the two societies are much alike. 

A scholarship has been maintained in a school in the South- 
land and boxes for both teachers and pupils have been sent to such 
schools. 

The Circle pays a portion of our missionary’s salary and fre- 
quently has sent her a Christmas box. Other objects for which 
work is done include work among foreigners in our own Presby- 
tery. 

They have several times sent picture cards to the children’s 
hospital in Pittsburgh and to Ellis Island in N. Y. Harbor, thus 
doing humanitarian work. Their subscription to the building fund 
of the present church was $500.00 but it was increased to $2,200.00 
and in addition they helped the Pastor’s Aid to pay theirs. 

When the wooden floor in the basement of the church was torn 
up by the flood of 1913 the Circle helped pay for replacing it with 


128 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 





tile. They also gave help to one of our own “‘boys” who was in 
course of preparation for the ministry. They projected a Lecture 
Course two or three winters but abandoned it when the High 
School took up that work. 

The members of this society are very reasourceful and have 
made money in many, unique ways, never losing an opportunity 
for “earning a penny.” When we were using the Hose House for 
church services and a reception was given to Dr. and Mrs. Hutchi- 
son, the Circle bought inexpensive window curtains for the 
occasion. After that, they were in great demand whenever any 
social functon was held in that place. These curtains were rented 
for $1.00 each time and considerable revenue was obtained from 
that source, probably more than enough to pay for them. 

The society met in the homes of members till after the present 
church was built, but having outgrown the capacity of many 
houses to accommodate it, the meetings are now held in the social 
room of the church. At these meetings a program combining 
social, industrial, and missionary endeavor is carried out. 


Woman’s Union 


The Woman’s Union was organized by Mrs. Wm. Pollock 
March 21, 1902. It is not a society for the promotion of the 
spiritual interests of our church although it 1s founded upon a 
religious basis. Devotional exercises are observed at every meet- 
ing. The object of the society is the care of the church property 
and to raise money for purposes for which no other provision has 
been made. The first officers were: 


President... —— =) oO) = CO MRS Bit aK ENNERDELL 
Rec. Secretary - - -  - JULIETTE ROBINSON 
Treasurer oe ee | eet OTTO re 


Each of these officers had two or three “assistants”. Mrs. Ken- 
nerdell left the society within the first year and Mrs. R. A. Mc- 
Cullough, Ist Vice-President, went automatically into the presi- 
dent's office. She proved to be a most capable leader and was 
elected and re-elected until she asked to be excused. 

Soon after the society was organized extensive and costly 
changes were made in the church edifice. The Union assumed re- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 129 


sponsibility for the debt incurred and had paid a portion of it when 
the church burned. The Trustees cancelled the debt out of the in- 
surance indemnity and the society went to work at once to help 
build another church. The usual, as well as some unusual methods 
were used and all the women of the church whether members of 
the society, or not gave substantial aid. Food sales were held 
every month and a trade in doughnuts was built up which, large 
as it was, never fully supplied the demand. Whole days were 
spent in the Hose House kitchen making these delicious cakes. 

Quite a business 1n millinery was established in making garden 
hats and they were sold from Maine to California. Orders could 
not be filled fast enough. The work was strenuous, but very 
profitable as over $500.00 worth of the hats were sold. 

A red letter day with this society was one in February, 1910, 
when E. E. Kinter loaned his store and made the offer of 10% on 
the sales. A “catchy” advertisement had been inserted in the 
daily papers. For instance, ““We hope Mrs. So-and-So will get 
rid of some of her ‘Notions’”’. “If you want to have a ‘fit’, buy a 
corset from Mrs. Such-a-One.” It was a day of good fun and 
financial profit, as the commission was $50.00. This was turned 
into the society’s subscription to the Building Fund. 

The Annual Bazaar has been an attractive feature in the pro- 
gram of this society. It is held in the afternoon and evening of 
the day before Thanksgiving. Fancy work, aprons, and toothsome 
dainties for the Thanksgiving dinner are on sale and always in 
demand. These are the standard articles but at times others not 
of such practical use have been on the counters. This society paid 
$4,450.00 to the building fund and $1,000 to the parsonage. 

Just before the Centennial celebration the whole church had a 
thorough house cleaning and a new velvet carpet was laid in the 
Sunday School wing, which includes the parlor and some class 
rooms. Ihe Woman’s Union bought the carpet at a. cost of 
$1,250.00. The Trustees paid the hired help, and whatever other 
expense was incurred in doing the work, but the “ladies” of the 
church worked day after day at menial tasks thus saving a great 
many dollars. An elegant lunch was provided every day for all 
the workers. 

This society has a large list of dues-paying members but not 
many active workers. The ranks of these have been sadly de- 


130 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


pleted by death and removal. The list 1s too long to be elven 
here. The meetings are usually all-day sewings, at which a dinner 
or lunch is served, which quite a number from outside patronize 
and enjoy. These are also a source of revenue. The Kitchen 
Committee is careful that nothing is wasted. If there are any 
left-overs, ready buyers are eager to get them. 

It is too bad that the history of this society can not be continued 
to the present time for much valuable work has been done since the 
Centennial. It 1s sufficient to know that the church would not be 
as comfortable or convenient today if it were not for what the 
Woman’s Union has done. 


Young People’s Work 


= 
fo) <0 0 La 


The Christian Endeavor Society, which was organized Novem- 
ber 30, 1890, absorbed the Young Men’s Prayer Meeting. For 
several years 1t was an active society as is shown in a report given 
in 1896. At that time there were 100 members and nearly all 
attended meetings regularly. 

Their first missionary work was the support of a Bible woman 
in China and a scholarship in a school for Mountaineers. The first 
officers were: 


President - - - Mrs. Georce W. DoveERSPIKE 
Vice-President - - - = MyrtLte THOMPSON 
Recording Secretary - - -  - Rose FINDLEY 
Dréeasurer =~ = »= =. ==" = PANNY. BIXLER 


With such competent officers to start this society, it ought to 
be doing good work today, but for some reason it fell back. It has 
been put to sleep and revived several times but never for long. 
The explanation must come from those who were at one time mem- 
bers. ; 

A junior C. E. was organized September 5, 1892, under con- 
trol of the Senior Society, with Ada Brown, as superintendent. 
Fanny Bixler and Alice Sloop were her assistants, but this too, like 
its “parent” ceased its activity. 

With the exception of a few interpolations, the following 
paper was contributed by Frank M. Shubert. He does not men- 
tion himself, but 1t is only fair to him to tell that he was Mr. 
Brymer’s right-hand man and succeeded him in the work with the 
Cadets. 

“The First Presbyterian Church has always been a firm believer 
in its young people and a prominent place for their work has been 
emphasized. 

“In the early days of the Christian Endeavor movement the 
voung people of this church played no small part in this activity 


iz History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


and in the county organization the First Church Society always 
gave a good account of itself. 

“Following the Evangelistic Campaign of Jordan and Mitchell 
in the early part of 1906, a new Christian Endeavor Society was 
organized. This society met with reasonable success from the be- 
ginning. In the fall of 1907 it began to take on new life and soon 
became one of the principal auxiliary societies of the church. 

“In the fall of 1908, Mr. Andrew Brymer, formerly of Blairs- 
ville, arrived in town; not only he, but his wife and daughter, 
Elsie, entered into the activities of every department of the church 
work and were quite an acquisition. Having previously been 
identified with Young People’s work in Blairsville, Butler and 
Philadelphia, Mr. Brymer immediately offered his services to the 
Christian Endeavor Society of our church. The society enjoyed a 
great period of prosperity in the winter of 1908-1909. Mr. 
Brymer’s home on Rebecca Street was the scene of many happy 
social gatherings of the Endeavorers. The society was well organ- 
zed, interesting meetings were held, various committees held 
monthly meetings, and the monthly social and business meeting 
was a feature of the society. 

On the occasion of a memorial service in February, 1909, held 
in memory of Dr. H. L. Mayers, who died January 28, the Sunday 
School room was filled to capacity with the Endeavorers and their 
friends. Dr. Mayers was a great friend of the society and held a 
warm place in the hearts of the young people of the church. 


“When the disastrous fire which occurred on Sunday morning, 
March 7, 1909, destroying the church edifice, the Endeavor Society 
was the only organization of the church that held a meeting on 
that memorable day. This meeting was held in Hose House No. 
3 on North Jefferson Street. 

“While the congregation were worshipping in Hose House No. 
1, on South Jefferson Street, during the erection of the new 
church building, the Endeavor Society continued to operate, and 
in this period a movement of major importance in the Young Peo- 
ple’s work of the church had its inception. One Sunday morning 
as Mr. Brymer was sitting in the church service listening to an in- 
spiring sermon, his attention was attracted to a half dozen or more 
boys sitting in a seat in the “amen” corner paying close attention 
to the sermon. Mr. Brymer at that moment caught a vision of a 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 133 


Junior Christian Endeavor Society in the church, and immediately 
proceeded to organize one. The society worked in conjunction 
with the Young People’s Society and met with marvelous success 
under the leadership of Mr. Brymer, who became its first superin- 
tendent. Many of the men and women of the church today look 
back with pride to being members of this wonderful organization. 
[t was an inspiration to the churches in the county and surround- 
ing territory and frequently sent large delegations to county and 
state conventions. The Junior Society provided trained boys and 
girls for promotion into the Young People’s society. 

‘About the time of the completion of the new church edifice, Mr. 
Brymer viewing the large room in the basement of the building, 
had another vision. He saw wonderful opportunity for a boys’ 
organization along the line of a Boys’ Brigade. After mature 
deliberation he decided to do all he possibly could to bring about 
the effecting of such an organization. The idea met with great 
response on the part of the boys and Mr. Brymer soon had his 
hands full. Two companies were quickly formed, officers appoint- 
ed, and Mr. Brymer invested heavily of his own funds to get the 
necessary equipment. The finest uniforms were provided and 
nothing was left undone on the part of Mr. Brymer to make the 
enterprise a success. [he organization was started in the summer 
of 1911 and when the first public appearance was made on Mem- 
orial Day, 1912, the “First Presbyterian Cadets,’ which was the 
name of the organization, was the talk of the town and surround- 
ing country. Mr. Brymer was commander of the organization and 
had able assistants from the church. 


“There were two companies at that time, A and B. There was a 
fife and drum corps of 10 members, as well as an escort for the 
colors. There was also a hospital or ambulance unit and on the 
long march to the cemetery, several of the little fellows whose 
tender age made the march too strenuous, rode a part of the way 
in the ambulance. Before leaving the church, in the basement of 
which they formed in line, a photograph was taken of the Cadets. 
Mr. Brymer had a large picture made from this and it hangs today 
in the parlor of the church as a tribute to a man who really loved 
the boys and girls. 

“In their clean and natty uniforms, white gloves and shining 
buttons the Cadets certainly did present a fine appearance when 


134. = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


they turned out on parade. Before leaving the basement or drill 
room of the church, Mr. Brymer would often have a professional 
shoe shiner and his assistants to put a glossy shine upon each pair 
of shoes. On Fourth of July morning, Mr. Brymer was accustom- 
ed to charter a special car and take the Cadets to Lenape Park for 
an early morning wiener roast. Those were happy days for Mr. 
Brymer and the boys in which pastor and people joined with loyal 
spirit and cooperation. 


“It was a sad day for the First Church and its young peoplewhen 
Mr. Brymer moved from Kittanning to Pittsburgh in the early 
part of 1914. The farewell reception tendered Mr. Brymer and 
his family by the congregation was an event that lingers yet in the 
hearts and minds of the people of the congregation. 

“All three organizations, Young People’s Society, Junior So- 
ciety, and Cadets, immediately felt the great loss of Mr. 
Brymer’s presence and it took some time to make  adyjust- 
ments and have other persons in the congregation take up the re- 
sponsibility of the work. In due time, however, the organizations 
were running quite well and it was due in no small part to the 
impetus given the work by one who was so dearly loved and his 
smiling face shall ever linger in the mental picture of those who 
personally knew Mr. Brymer. 


“During the World War, when the United States became 
actively engaged, the Cadets were very active. Many of the boys 
who had served in Company A firing squad in the Cadets were on 
the fields of France, and quite a number were officers, some even 
commissioned officers. 


“At this time the Cadets had three large companies, also an 
auxiliary of Naval Reserves and quite a large drum and bugle 
corps. At different times as the “Liberty Boys” of the National 
Army would leave Kittanning for the U. S. cantonments, the 
Cadets would turn out to assist other patriotic organizations in 
giving a send-off to the boys. They also assisted in welcoming re- 
turning soldier boys. When Dr. Hutchison returned from Camp 
Dix where he had been stationed as Camp Pastor, the Cadets in 
almost perfect organization met him at the railroad station and 
escorted him to his home. 


“When the World War came to an end, the Cadets like other or- 
ganizations that had been active during the war period, furled 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 135 


their flag, packed away their guns and drums and the drill room 
that once reverberated with the tread of the various squads and 
companies remains silent. The Cadets as an organization passed 
into history. Their activities will never be forgotten by those who 
witnessed any part of them.” 

After Mr. Brymer went away Mrs. William J. Hutchison took 
charge of the Junior Endeavorers and with the help: of Mrs. 
Charles Dargue conducted a flourishing society but after Mrs. 
Hutchison’s departure the society lanquished and finally died for 
want of leadership. 

Under the head of “Young People’s Work” it may be said that 
a number of young men have gone into the ministry who had help 
from this church. Some of them were members here while others 
had the use of the Scholarship in Western Theological Seminary. 
A complete list could not be obtained but a few names are recalled 
from memory—Henry Painter, D. J. Irwin and two of his sons, 
D. H. Sloan, Ivory Keener, Merritt Hutchison, William Merwin, 
Roy Kiskaddon, Charles H. Bierkemper and others. 





Church Edifices 


226) > 0 0a xe 


The First Church 


The first “Meeting House’ erected on the present site of Hose 
House No. | was of brick 50 feet square. It was built by Archi- 
bald Dickey and his claim for erecting it was settled and adjusted 
as follows: 


MEETING HOUSE, Dr. to ARCRIBALD DICKEY, Jr. 


To erecting house per contract 

Gated Se) Usa L6 30 cee ce ee ee eee % 988.75 
Building pulpit and putting up pews................ 469.5914 
EX(rASWwODK Der Dil epeae te ee eee eee 52.2214 


$1,510.57 








(Pp 
ByeHamiltonsecacy a2 ace $400. 
By-SSuDSEnptulOns ee ae 630. 1030. 
Balance duewAt.DICKe ya 7 eee 480.57 


There was a “settlement” November 3, 1834, which reduced 
the indebtedness to $200.00 but whether or not the balance was 
ever paid 1s not recorded. No doubt it was. 

There was only one room in this church and all meetings, 
religious and secular were held there. There were a double block 
of pews in the center and a single block on either side. Broad 
aisles entered by outside doors separated these blocks. The pews 
were very plain and without paint except on a moulding which ran 
along the top of the backs and ends. This was a dark red color. 
Doors, buttoned on the inside, kept the youngsters in, and possibly 
the non-pewholders out. The choir occupied the two rear pews, 


O€Q] GALOAAY ‘“ONIGTING HOUNH’) LSUl-y 


137 


10 
Cc 


Kittannin 


/ 


Church o 


vterian 


First Presb 


v of 


Histor 





138 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


in the middle block, which were elevated a few inches. Brackets 
or uprights were fastened to the backs of the pews in front and a 
shelf for the music books rested upon them. This was necessary 




























A. L. ROBINSON 

H. N.LEE 
NANCY MONTEITH 
ROB* BROWN J& 
REV. J2S PAINTER 
D& JOHN GILPIN 
Jos MSCARTNEY 


P. MECHLING 
Jes BUF FINGTON 
PHELPS & MEREDITH 





55) JAS. GALBRAITH 
53) CKAS, MONTGOMERY 















ROBERT ORR 
DAVID JOHNSTON 

J.5, TORNEY A. ARNOLD 
FRED ROHRER J.M. JORDAN 
DOUGLAS & DONALOSON | JAS. E BROWN 
W.W. HASTINGS 

ISABELL COGLEY 

R. ROBINSON SRS cee 
SAMUEL HOUSTON | MRS JCHN CUNNINGHAM [ag 
HUGH ROGERS =| SAMY M‘KEE [36 3 


B, OSWALD 
peak 3] JOHN RITCHART | W"- CUNNINGHAM 
mom [Horr 


PLAN OF SEATS SHOWING PEw Ho.pers From 1832 To 1840 


CHAMBERS ORR 
P. TEMPLETON 
JOHN A. COLWELL 
JOHN BROWN 
JAS THOMPSON 


ALEX. COLWELL 
JAS MS CULLOUGH 


RICH BAILEY 
J.R. JOHNSTON 
BONNER & 
HUTCHINSON 
9 JOSIAH COPLEY 


DAVID CRAWFORD 


JOHN HOOD 
JOHN TAYLOR 


THOS T. TAYLOR 





19 




























Y 






Ricx#? GRAHAM 
JAS. COWAN 
J°5 0. BOWSER 


















32 33 





3! 


because at that time words only were printed in the hymn books 
and the choir used additional books with notes. It would have 
been difficult to hold two books as the music books were large and 
unhandy. From the shelf upon which these books were placed, 
green curtains, made of woolen stuff, hung.—Why they were neces- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 139 


sary is not known as the singers being back of the pews could not 
have been embarrassed by the gaze of the congregation. 

The pulpit was considerably higher than the floor of the church 
and was reached by a flight of winding stairs at each end and 
through gates which could be closed. The whole platform was 
enclosed by a banister supported by spindles. These, as well as 
the gates were lined with red cotton goods, probably what was 
called» el urkeys red. So. when;-the “preacher= entered.-they en- 
closure and shut the gates he was truly alone with “his own 
reflections” (The author of this account remembers a small door 
in the front of the pulpit platform just below the desk. Upon 
inquiring she learned that behind the door was a closet in which 
the Communion Service was kept. This little girl’s Sunday 
School class was taught in one of the “amen” corners and she was 
probably more interested in her surroundings than the instruction 
her good teacher was trying to impart.) 

The windows were shaded by Venetian blinds which were 
made of wooden slats, painted green and strung on cords by such 
a mechanism that the slats could be operated so as to let in more 
or less light as occasion demanded. 


The heat (if such it could be called) came from a stove in each 
aisle, but on November 6, 1852, “A. L. Robinson was emploved to 
heat the church with a furnace for which he is to receive $25.00— 
materials to be furnished.” 


This was probably an additional stove as there was no cellar 
under the building and not much of a “furnace” could be in- 
stalled for $25.00. Mr. Robinson’s bill for erecting the heater 
was much less than $25.00, the difference was deducted from his 
subscription and the “balance in cash was put on a credit note 
of Rev. Jos. Painter against church.” This shows how carefully 
the money was safe-guarded. The artificial light came from four 
chandeliers in which lard oil was burned. They were beautiful, 
as prisms hung from them which reflected lights of many colors. 
These chandeliers were used for several years in the next church, 
kerosene being substituted for lard oil. 

Some historians have associated the damage to this church 
with the storm which carried off the bridge but this 1s a mistake. 
St. Paul’s and St. Mary’s Churches suffered the loss of their 
steeples but the Presbyterian Church was not in the path of the 


140 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


storm. This occurred on a week day about 6 o'clock P. M. while 
the accident to our church came during a Sunday morning service. 
There was a loud report, one corner of the floor sank and a crack 
in the wall appeared through which daylight could be seen. The 
congregation was dismissed and never went back to worship. No 
mention of this catastrophe is found in the records but it must 
have occurred before February 26, 1856, as on that date a com- 
mittee was appointed to secure the church from falling while 
the storm did not come till April 12. In the minutes of Session, 
recorded in connection with the dedication of the Church in 1890, 
on one page a picture of the first church 1s pasted and on the 
margin these words are written and signed by P. kK. Bowman, who 
was then Clerk of the Session. “This building was not blown 
down by a cyclone. The old brick church was pulled down 
in 1856 to make room preparatory to building another house,’ 
Mr. Bowman lived here at that time. The historians did not, and 
likely got their information from persons who did not know the 
facts. The Vestry of St. Paul’s Church offered the use of their 
church till such times as we could procure a suitable one of our 
own but after the usual felicitations on such occasions the offer 
was gratefully declined and that of the Court House, tendered by 
the County Commissioners, was accepted. That was our place of 
worship while the second church was being built. It was not the 
present Court House but was one which stood on the same site 
and burned a year or two later. 


The Second Church 


The second church was built on the site of the first one but a 
little nearer to the street, the Trustees having “agreed” that it 
should “be on a line with Mr. McCartney’s house’ (later the 
Meredith home. ) : 

April 21, 1856. At a meeting of the Trustees one member 
moved that a congregational meeting be called for the purpose of 
considering the propriety of building a new church “but another 
member moved to postpone the resolution till the next meeting 
which was agreed to.” The “next meeting” was held the next 
day but a congregational meeting was not mentioned and two 
committees were appointed “to raise subscriptions for the erection 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 14] 








MMI! 


Mh 


Mh 


SS 
S 


RAWSHORNE — 
‘ a Pitts PA 





BUILDING ERECTED IN 1856 


142 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


of a new church.”’ Between that date and May 31 several meet- 
ings were held but no reference is made either to a congregational 
meeting or a new church—but on the latter date “Board met. Mr. 




















REV L.M. GRAVES 





MARY HUTCHINSON 





A. ARNOLD 


T.C. M*° COLLOUGH 


5| J.ALEX. FULTON 


E.D. BARRETT 
ELLIOT & M‘PHILLENY 


g| REV. D’ PAINTER 


7| ALEX. REYNOLDS 


3 












Coo 
M2 THORN JOS CLARK 


J.V. PAINTER 
G.T. CRAWFORD | ¥-E. BROWN 













M.HULINGS 
A. L. ROBINSON 
S HCUSTON 
MRS JANE REYNOLDS } 
ROSS REYNOLDS 
P. TEMPLETON 
G.W SMITH 
J. MS CULLOUGH 
F.J RUPP e4 4 


JAS THOMPSON 
JOHN THOMPSON [26 
W W.HASTINGS [28 


5 





7 







43 19 


J.S. QUIGLEY | MISS E CRAWFORD |45 2 
Ue L LE 

3 bs 
WEA COUNEL Lam a eeeh nn meant 


















ANDREW TITZELL 
JOHN MC COMB SLE 
J. DOUGLAS JAS. GALBRAITH 
ALEX. M©COLLOUGH] miss pavIiDSON 
JAS COWAN 
A. J. FAULK JOHN WILSON 
JH. ME COMBS si] SEORGE RON M3 M, ROBINSON 
Rost MC GAIN |34 58 JOHN ROBINSON | JAS LOWTHER 


PLAN OF SEATS, SHOWING PEW Ho pers IN 1856 






Crawford moved that the size of the church proposed to be built 
shall be 72 feet long by 48 wide, which was seconded by Mr. 
Fulton, and on the vote being taken it was agreed to. Mr. Mc- 
Cartney moved that the walls be eighteen inches thick with but- 
tresses which was agreed to. Mr. Crawford moved that the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 143 


height of the lecture room or basement story shall be nine feet in 
the clear. Mr. McCullough moved to amend by striking out nine 
and inserting eight which was accepted by the mover and Mr. 
Fulton moved to amend by striking out eight and inserting eight 
and one-half, and this being accepted the resolution was adopted. 
Mr. McCullough moved that the Court room (the one which 
burned later) with its oval ceiling, be taken as a model for the 
audience room which was agreed to. Mr. Crawford thought 
there ought to be but one main entrance to the church with right 
and left spiral stairs to the audience room and two doors entering 
two aisles above and one into the lecture room which was agreed 
to. Mr. McCartney moved that the windows be box-framed and 
double hung which was agreed to. Mr. Fulton moved that we 
adopt the Gothic style of architecture, which was seconded by 
Mr. McCartney, which was agreed to. Mr. Robinson moved that 
sealed proposals be received until the 18 of June according to 
plans and specifications to be exhibited and that the letting be ad- 
vertised by handbills which was agreed to. Mr. Fulton moved 
- that Gen. Orr and Messrs. Robinson and McCartney be a com- 
mittee to get plans and specifications which was agreed to. Mr. 
Robinson moved that Messrs. Crawford, McCullough and Fulton 
be a committee to advertise for bids. Mr. Fulton moved that 
Mr. Robinson be a committee to obtain subscriptions. Truly a 
very ‘“‘agree-able” board. 

We may smile at the hardihood of these men in undertaking 
to build a church without an architect, with no money in sight 
and little experience in any kind of building and certainly none in 
the realm of church architecture. Rather should they not be 
commended for their pluck and determination and for what they 
accomplished? They labored under adverse conditions but at last 
gave us a church. It was not a marvel of beauty but was con- 
sidered splendid at the time and with changes and repairs and 
additions as the years went by, it was made convenient and we 
were comfortable till we could afford a better one. We who lived 
through the erection of two churches can hardly appreciate the 
size of the task which these pioneer builders assumed. 

It does not appear that they had assurance of support from any 
quarter. When similar work confronted us in later years all the 
machinery of the church was put in motion toward the accom- 


144 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


plishment of it and nothing was done without the consent of the 
congregation expressed in open meeting. To return to the pro- 
posed new church. 

At the next meeting of the Trustees June 11 the resolution fix- 
ing the height of the basement story was changed from 8% to ten 
feet and the height of the audience chamber was fixed at 20 feet; 
the pitch of the roof of the old church building was adopted as a 
model for the new one. The pews were to be exactly like the 
ones in the Episcopal Church except that the seats would be one 
inch wider. And so on. Resolutions were adopted and rescinded 
till finally the time arrived for opening bids. The lowest one for 
$3,000.00 was made by Marcus Hulings. A committee was ap- 
pointed to learn what reduction would be made by lowering both 
ceilings, dispensing with windows in the rear of the audience room 
and the pew doors. Mr. Hulings said he would reduce his bid 
$100.00 so the contract was given to him for $3,500.00 with the 
use of the old building. 

June 24. The Trustees constituted themselves into a building 
committee with Mr. McCartney as chairman and to have general 
supervision of the erection of the church. Afterwards there were 
some alterations in the plans which Mr. Hulings “agreed” to 
make for $200.00. 

September 27. Mr. Hulings was “authorized to put an arm on 
the ends of the pews, provided each arm does not cost more than 
twenty-five cents.” This seems very funny in these days when 
pews are bought from the factory, ready to put together. The 
general plan of the church was square. A wide vestibule extended 
across the front and at either end a stair-case led up to the audi- 
ence room. The back part of this room must have been un- 
comfortably cold in winter as the vestibule was not heated and 
there were no doors at the top of the stairs. Right there a short 
flight of steps reached up to the gallery or choir loft which was 
over the vestibule. These steps were narrow and were not pro- 
tected by a rail and it is a wonder if no one ever fell off. The 
auditorium was seated with a double block of pews in the center 
and a single block against the outer walls. Wide aisles separated 
these blocks. There were several large windows on both sides 
which were altogether unshaded till January of 1863 when the 
Trustees decided to put on inside shutters. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 145 


There were 58 pews—44 in the center blocks and six on each 
side of the pulpit. These pews were painted white and had light 
purple trimmings. As they were “equipped” with “arms” it is to 
be supposed that “each arm did not cost more than 25 cents.” 

The aisles were covered with red and black ingrain carpet of 
the scroll pattern. The basement was the last word in ugliness. 
The furnishings were salvaged from the old church, the doors 
having been taken from the pews. At first there were two rooms 
—one for Sunday School—the other for prayer meeting and 
other small gatherings. There was no door between the vestibule 
and basement, the only entrances to the rooms being from the yard 
and one was at the extreme back of the church. 


February 24, 1860. A committee composed of the president, 
the secretary and one other member of the Board “were appointed 
to see the assignees of the Hulings judgment and obtain release as 
far as practicable and raise money to pay the balance of said 
judgment as well as the rest of the creditors.” (No record of this 
having been successful or otherwise). 

In 1860 when the Sunday School took on new life (See Col. 
Finlay’s “History and Reminiscences”) the partition between the 
rooms in the basement was removed, a door was cut into the 
vestibule and then, or perhaps later every alternate pew was re- 
moved. This left room for a chair upon which teachers could sit 
facing their classes, instead of kneeling upon the pew in front of 
them. 


In 1806 further improvements were made in the whole building. 
The pews in the auditorium were taken out and others placed. 
These were shorter and closer together which gave space for a third 
aisle. The aisles were narrow—only three feet wide—but by this 
arrangement there was room for two double blocks of pews and 
two single blocks which provided a great many more sittings. 
There were 119 pews, every one capable of seating four persons 
comfortably and five if crowding was necessary. 


A new pulpit platform was built and the old one with the desk 
taken to the Sunday School room. The pews and carpet went 
the same way. The floor of the basement was lowered, which not 
only gave a higher ceiling but made room for a vestibule on the 
second floor. From this vestibule there were three entrances into 
the auditorium. In cold weather these could be kept closed. The 
doors were very light—possibly mere frames, and were covered 


ay 





J.D. GOLDEN 


2| W.H. JACK 


3] J. WHITSSELL 
4{M2* E BRICKER 


6}. J. THOMPSON 


/ 













| MRSHORR | JA.COLWELL 
|. convo MSW BMEREDITH 
W".COLWELL MUS TITZELL 
J2> BUFFINGTON 


VESTIBULE 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 












50 





52 


JS HENDERSON | R°8™ GOWAN 













JOHN ROSS RoHAace 
54 94 ye MA 
M®S PATRICK HENRY BAYHA |}, 
56) J.A.GAULT P. K. BOWMAN j 92 
1 
«,powsFr 


58 


coors ri | 
ee eee 
=o 
on oo 
Pre [rome | 
a ow fo 
78} F.P.WOLF 
fn fr 
1 cael eal 


60 


&2 










72 






4 





7 











82) 





PLAN OF SEATS, SHOWING PEW Ho .peErs, 1867 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 147 


with green baize. A flight of steps,at each end of the vestibule led 
to the gallery. 

A new system of heating was installed that did away with the 
unsightly furnaces which blocked the aisles in the lower room. 
New chandeliers were hung. The pulpit desk and two tables flank- 
ing it were of black walnut with white marble tops. The com- 
munion table corresponded with these and was donated by Mrs. H. 
H. Calhoun. 

After these improvements were made there arose a conflict be- 
tween the contractor, who made the alterations in the basement, 
and the Trustees who thought the bill was excessive. There had 
been an “‘original contract” but the figures for that are not given. 
February 11, 1867, a compromise of $800.00 was offered but the 
contractor “‘obstinately refused to take one dollar less than the 
amount of his bill rendered,’ and the Trustees employed “an at- 
torney provided a law suit grows out of the settlement.” 

May 11, 1868—15 months later—a settlement was made for 
$700.00—$650.00 to be paid in cash, the balance of $50.00 to be 
accepted as a subscription from the contractor; he to pay all costs 
and withdraw the law suit. 

In 1876 steps were taken towards enlarging the old church or 
building a new one. After several preliminary meetings of the 
official boards a congregational meeting was called at which it was 
voted to build a new church. An option had been secured upon 
the lot on the southwest corner of Arch and McKean Streets. 
Committees to be responsible for different parts of the work were 
appointed. The duty of one of these was to solicit for funds to 
pay an architect to draw plans and specifications for the new 
edifice, but the whole project came to an end right there as the 
canvassers did not procure the required amount, which was only 
$300.00. This was a great disappointment to Mr. Ewing. 

In 1881 the pews were removed from the lower room and 
chairs substituted; the floor was carpeted all over and the place 
made suitable for social gatherings. But we were outgrowing our 
quarters, although two rooms had been built at the rear of the 
Sunday School room. One of these was used as a parlor in which 
Women’s Missionary Societies met and other meetings were held. 
The other one was used by the Primary class. With the erection 
of this addition Mr. Ewing’s hope for a new church, during his 
pastorate, died. 


148 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 














CHURCH DEsTROYED BY FIRE Marcu 7, 1909 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 149 





The Third Church 


In September, 1885, a paper, signed by four elders, six trustees 
and eighteen private members was presented to the Session making 
request that a congregational meeting be called to consider the 
propriety of building a new church. There is no record to show 
that this request was even considered but it must have been kept in 
mind because on May 11, 1887, a congregational meeting was held, 


ae 





—~SSHOWING 32> 
PRICES & NUMBERS. 
——~ of [DEW .S or tne 

IST. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH oF KIT TANNING PA. 


150 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 





the object of which was to take steps toward securing a lot for the 
new church. A committee of nine was appointed to ‘‘view sites”; 
Viz) pamuel: Crawlord 2? Babli Lukens |S Am ocUl te) eee ce 
W.. Dy» Patton, GG. CeshadlewaAs.G, GrawiordnGiaW mlWoverspike 
and P. Kk. Bowman. 

June 8, 1887. Congregation met to hear report of Committee. 
The majority favored the two lots on corner of Jefferson and Arch 
Streets (exclusive of the part occupied by a dwelling) which 
could be bought for $10,000.00, and recommended the purchase of 
the same. The Trustees were authorized to buy this site from 
Simon Truby and Anna J., his wife, and pay $1,000.00 at once to 
hold the contract. 

February. &, 1888. At a joint meeting of the Session and 
Trustees, the pastor was instructed to correspond with Mr. Volk, 
an architect in New York City and procure his plans and terms, 
to be submitted for inspection at a future meeting. 

February 28. Mr. Volk’s plans were submitted at a joint meet- 
ing of the Session and Trustees and having been approved it was 
recommended that they be placed before the congregation for 
adoption. On motion the name of Mr. Volk was proposed as 
architect. The pastor was instructed to call a congregational 
meeting in two weeks. The object of this meeting was to author- 
ize the appointment of a Building Committee and to adopt the 
plans drawn by the architect. Also to authorize the building 
committee to enter into contract with Mr. Volk as architect for 
sald building. 

Committee appointed were Rev. H. L. Mayers, J. A. Colwell, 
Ross. Reynolds, Sr., James McCullough, Jr., Geo. T. Crawford, 
P. K. Bowman. 

June 13, 1888. Another congregational meeting was held, the 
object of which was to raise the limit of the cost of the new 
church edifice from $32,000.00 to $35,000.00 “as may be deemed 
advisable’, when on a motion which carried, the limit was raised 
to $36,000.00. 

October 4, 1888, the corner-stone was laid with imposing cere- 
monies. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning iM 


Laying of the Corner Stone 
ORDER OF EXERCISES 
INVOCATION BY THE PASTOR 


Almighty God, Thou everlasting and eternal ruler of the universe, 11. 
whom we live and move and have our being, and for whom we have all 
been created, we thank Thee for this day, for its bright and hopeful pros- 
pect. Let the light of Thy countenance reconciled in Christ Jesus our Lord 
rest upon us and give us heavenly prospects. . We humbly entreat Thee, 
send Thy Spirit, that He may guide us aright, that in all our plans and 
labors we may seek to glorify Thee. Our hearts are made glad by reason 
of Thy presence, and now as we have begun the erection of this church in 
Thy name and for Thy glory, continue Thou with us, in rich and abundant 
blessings, till the end. We pray, most merciful God, in the name of Christ, 
our adorable Lord, for the pardon of all our Sins; that our transgressions 
and disobedience may not be remembered against us. 

We humbly invoke Thy blessing upon the church universal, Thy peace 
and presence with the nations of the earth; and Thine shall be the praise 
and the glory, in a world without end. Amen. 


se a Se ere ee vet Se Ra 


The reading of the Scriptures by the Rev. Dewitt M. Benham, 
pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church, of Kittanning, from the 
epistle of St. Paul to the Ephesians, the second chapter. 

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and _ sins; 
wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, ac- 
cording to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh 
in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversa- 
tion in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh 
and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. 
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 
even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, 
(by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit 
together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; that in the ages to come he 
might shew the exceeding riches of his grace, in bis kindness toward us, 
through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that 
not of yourselves; if is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should 
boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good 
works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. 
Wherefore remember, that ye bemmg in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who 
are called Uncircumcision by that which zs called the Circumcision in the 
flesh made by hands: that at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens 
from the the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of 
promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now, in Christ 
Jesus, ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. 


b> History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the 
middle wall of partition between us; having abolished in his flesh the 
enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to 
make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; and that he might 
reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity 
thereby; and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to 
them that were nigh. For through him we both have access by one Spirit 
unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, 
but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are 
built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ him- 
self being the chief corner-stone; in whom all the building, fitly framed 
together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord; in whom ye also are 
builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. 


a le Se Se i ee Ss 


The following hymn was then sung: 
Christ 1s our Corner-Stone, 
On him alone we build, 
With his true saints alone 
The courts of heaven are filled; 
On his great love 
Our hopes we place, 
Of present grace 
And joys above. 


Oh, then with hymns of praise, 
These hallowed courts shall ring, 
Our voices we will raise 
The three in one to sing; 
And thus proclaim 
In jovful song 
Both loud and long 
That glorious name. 


Here, gracious God! do thou 
For evermore draw nigh, 
Accept each faithful vow, 
And mark each suppliant sigh; 
In copious shower 
On all who pray, 
Each holy day 
Thy blessings pour. 


Here may we gain from Heaven, 
The grace which we implore; 
And may that grace once given, 
Be with us ever more, 
Until that day 
When all the blest 
To endless rest 
Are called away. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 153 


The Rev. Dr. Purves, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, 
of Pittsburgh, Pa., was introduced and delivered the following 
address: 


The ceremony of laying a corner-stone is the contribution 
which sentiment makes toward the erection of a building. I use 
the word sentiment, of course, in no offensive sense, but as 
signifying the purposes and hopes which the building is expected 
to fulfill. These must have some part in the work of erection. 
Earnest Christian toil through many years has gathered this con- 
gregation, and thus created the want which this building is to 
supply. 

The materials have been collected, and the mortar of dollars 
and cents is being mixed. 

Practical science has lent its aid in devising the plan after 
which these materials are to be conjoined. And now it is for those 
who are most concerned with the ultimate result, to indicate what 
are the purposes with which this work 1s begun, and what are the 
brilliant and solemn hopes which the future is expected to realize. 
And though to the eye of a professional architect, a corner-stone 
may*seem unimportant, yet to the eye of sentiment it is the most 
appropriate symbol of what we may call the building’s soul. 
For we would not care to contribute today any external and useless 
ornament, however beautiful, to this structure,—as 1f our purpose 
and hopes were after-thoughts—mere additions to what art and 
science have erected with other motives. We feel that the senti- 
ment is the heart of the edifice, that it is the real reason of the 
building; that to it all other agents are but servants. Therefore 
sentiment claims the right to bury its symbol in the very walls 
themselves, near to the foundation, and to make it the measure 
by which the lines of the whole structure shall be determined. 

In this stone, therefore, you deposit the record of your pur- 
poses. Here you put the brain of that spirit which is to animate 
the whole building as the soul does the body. Here you register 
your thoughts; and in doing so, you declare that the life of this 
new creation will not be found in its massive frame, or in its 
beautiful features, but in the holy sentiments which dwell in the 
minds of its founders, and are to dwell in all its future occu- 


pants. 
| shall endeavor, therefore, to express the sentiments, not only 


154. = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


of this congregation but of our church at large upon this hopeful 
occasion,—and therefore remark, that this is to be a Presbyterian 
Church. 

At such a time as this, if ever, we are bound to freely unfurl 
our colors. We are here as representatives of a denomination 
and we propose to represent it loyally. A denomination 1s not a 
sect We repel the offensive suggestions of the latter word, and 
maintain, that in acting as a denomination we are not guilty of 
sectarian feeling. A denomination is simply a body of Chris- 
tians united in certain special views of truth and modes of 
practicing it. It impugns the right of no man to think differently. 
It recognizes the brotherhood of all who believe in the common 
Saviour. But for itself it prefers to look at Christianity in a 
centain way, in which it finds comfort, which it believes to be 
most scriptural, which also it regards as practically the safest and 
most efficient. It is like a regiment attached to a certain kind of 
arms, and drilled to fight after a certain method, and it can 
surely not be considered unmindful of the successes or experiences 
of other Christians, 1f at such a moment as this, when erecting a 
new armory for one of its battalions, 1t should frankly and boldly 
fly the regimental standards. 

Let me name then the three characteristics of Presbyterianism 
and briefly consider them. Presbyterianism is Calvinistic in 
creed; Constitutional in government, and Catholic in spirit. 

Peesbirste  thenalteiss Calvinisticwin sckcec am icleealeminuced 
other churches which accept in whole or in part the same doctrines 
that we profess. These doctrines were held before the Refor- 
mation. But Presbyterianism has embodied them most com- 
pletely in its creed and they are the particular features by which 
in the estimate both of Presbyterians and others this denomina- 





tion is distinguished from other branches of the church. 

This type of doctrine is historically known as Calvinism. Not 
that Calvin originated it. We believe it to have been taught 
by the Apostles. We know that long before Calvin, 5t. 
Augustine taught it, and that from his time to Calvin's, 1t was 
held and taught by a part of the pre-Reformation church. But at 
the Reformation Calvin most elaborately and consistently set it 
forth, and hence it has unfortunately received his name. Now 
the peculiarity of this type of Christian doctrine is the emphasis 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning io) 


which it lays on the independence, authority, universal proprie- 
torship and all controlling graces of God. It believes, that both 
the Scriptures and reason put God over all, and deduce all things 
from His nature or will. It finds in God the fact which controls 
its view of other things. Nature and men are absolutely depend- 
ent upon Him. Since He, who 1s infinite, eternal and unchange- 
able in His being and perfections, is the sovereign authority of all 
creation, therefore all things find their ultimate and real explana- 
tion in His will. Every type of belief has its controlling idea. 
They who start from the idea of man’s assumed rights, will be 
led to modify every doctrine of religion by that principle; just 
as in political economy or philosophy, the fundamental premises 
determine all that follows. 

We Presbyterians learning from the Scriptures, that God 1s 
the supreme and absolute author and governor of the world, think 
that truth is only reached in perfection when theology and 
religion begin by bowing in submission before Him. Hence to 
the question, “What is the chief end of man?” We answer, 
‘“Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” 
“The Scriptures,’ we think, “principally teach what man 1s to 
believe concerning God, and what duties God requires of man.” 

This conviction of God’s independent authority, and sovereign 
grace marks the point of view from which we look at revealed 
truth and Christian life, and enables us, while not neglecting other 
points of view, to present the teachings of Scripture in symmetrical 
completeness. And hence, while in a general way many Chris- 
tians admit the sovereign grace of God, it is the peculiar effort 
of Presbyterianism to logically and faithfully apply this idea. 
This is not done in an exaggerated or one sided way, but so as to 
give it its due place in the creed of the church. We cannot, for 
example, conceive of God as the Creator, unless he at creation 
included in His thought and purpose all that has subsequently 
come to pass. If He freely made all things, then He owns all 
things, and has the right to do with them as seems good in His 
sight. “The earth is the Lord’s and the fulness thereof, for He 
has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the floods.” 

His own nature is to us the guarantee that He will in all 
things act wisely and righteously, but His authority and proprie- 
torship no one, we think, can fairly question. Moreover, if He 


1560. History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


made the world, then because he is an intelligent being, he must 
have made it with a distinct object; and so the Scriptures speak of 
“the purpose of Him, who worketh all things after the counsel of 
His own will.” Still more, because to determine an object it 1s 
necessary to determine the means which will secure that object, 
God’s purpose in creation must have included, and must therefore 
have rendered certain, all that has come to pass in the history of 
the entire universe. “He has made all things for himself; even 
the wicked for the day of evil.” “Not a sparrow falleth to the 
ground without your Father.’”’ Hence we say that He fore- 
ordained, whatsoever comes to pass. This is not to say, that men 
afe mere machines. This is not to deny, that they are free and 
responsible agents. This is not fatalism. 

To take one illustration, we think that never did men act more 
freely and responsibly, than when they crucified Jesus Christ; and 
yet nothing was more certain, than that Christ would die then 
and there. “They with wicked hands slew him, and thus did, 
what God’s hand and counsel had determined before, to be done.” 
SO, we Insist, it 1s with all things. We insist that men are free. 
We insist, that they are responsible. But we do not forget on the 
other hand, that God is ruling and that from the beginning he 
has ruled according to his original plan; that the Lord God 
omnipotent reigneth. 

We think also, that with this in mind we can most firmly 
accept the teachings of Scripture upon several particular points. 
If you ask us the ultimate reason of things, our reply is that God 
has willed them so. This is not to say that He has acted without 
reason. This is not to break natural inquiry upon the rock of an 
arbitrary decree. It is simply to say, that we do not know the 
ultimate reason of things; but that we have perfect confidence, 
that God has ordered them as they are for reasons, which to Him 
are sufficient. We think that this is the only logical and true posi- 
tion for a human mind to take. Back of all facts, some men see 
mere blind force; some see mere love; some see mere wrath. We 
see God, who is both power and love and righteousness, and we 
hold that it is the highest philosophy and the truest piety for men 
to bow the head and say, “Even so Father, for so it seemed good 
in Thy sight.” So when you ask us, why things are not equally 
distributed in this world, we reply, that in the last analysis of the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning ew 
problem, there is nothing for us to say but that God has given or 
withheld as He has chosen. 

If you ask, why one man believes and another man refuses to 
believe, we reply, that God granted faith to the one and with- 
held it from the other. We insist, be it remembered, that both 
have sinned and therefore deserve nothing. We insist, that the 
offer of salvation is freely and honestly made to every man. We 
repeat as loudly as any “Whosoever will, may take the water of 
life freely.” But we know also, that sinful men will not even 
take the living water, unless God “‘works in them the willing and 
the doing.’ We know out of our own hearts’ bitter experience 
that it was not of ourselves that we came to Christ, but that God’s 
mercy drew us. We remember, that Jesus said “no man can 
come unto me, except the Father draw him.” And while we some- 
times wonder, why divine grace does not draw all mankind, we 
are not so forgetful as to deny that those who do come have been 
quickened by the sovereign power of God’s Spirit. We do not 
pretend to understand God’s dealings. We are sure, that now 
we know only in part. We believe, that if any man will come 
to Christ, he may; and that if any come, he may know that God 
has chosen and renewed and justified him. But we feel, also, that 
we should be disloyal to the whole truth of Scripture, 1f we did 
not recognize, that God doeth his will in Heaven and upon earth, 
and that human inquiry can go no further than to say, “It is the 
Lord, let him do as seemeth Him good.” 

You see, therefore, that our type of doctrine is controlled by 
the idea of God. | would like to show, if I had time, the practi- 
cal value of this type of Christian doctrine. Every one must 
admit, that it is at least a faithful effort to present the whole 
truth, as taught in the Scriptures, even though it may not be under- 
stood. It presents the divine, as well as the human side of sal- 
vation, so far as these are revealed. True, Calvinism has some 
times been stated in one sided and exaggerated ways, but it is so 
stated not in our Confession of Faith. Still oftener has it been 
distorted by those who did not know better, or who willfully 
sought to misrepresent it. The Presbyterian God has been pic- 
tured as a monster of cruelty. We simply protest against the 
slander and go on with our work. Our God is the Father of all 
men, infinitely loving, as well as wise, and just. But we contend 


158 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


for his revealed rights as well as for men’s, and believe, that we 
are more loyal to truth, when we frankly state both sides of the 
method of salvation, as taught in the Scriptures, than we would 
be, 1f we denied or concealed one side because our finite minds 
cannot comprehend it, or because our rebellious hearts do not like 
it. 

And every one must admit, I think, that this type of doctrine 
honors God. It places Him on the throne; in His hand the 
scepter of righteousness, in his heart infinite mercy, on His brow 
the crown of universal government. It honors Him as the Giver 
of all grace, and makes men deeply sensible of immediate depend- 
ence upon and responsibility to Him. And therefore we hold this 
type of doctrine 1s calculated to produce the strongest characters. 
It necessarily makes a man submissive. It creates humility. It 
lays on every soul direct responsibility before God and compels 
every man to fly for help immediately to God. Hence we claim 
that the strongest religious characters outside of our own com- 
munion have been unconscious Calvinists; that the whole Church, 
in its prayers, 1s necessarily Calvinistic, and that thus unwitting 
testimony is borne to the truth of that type of doctrine which we 
represent. 

Such is our historic creed. While we do not for one moment 
make the acceptance of it a condition of salvation; while we do 
not even make it a term of communion; nor require our private 
members to formally subscribe to it; we yet endeavor to present 
Christianity in this aspect, believing that we thus shall most faith- 
fully proclaim the whole truth. 

I]. But I must pass from this to observe again that Pres- 
byterianism is Constitutional in Government. As its name 1m- 
plies it 1s the government of the church by Presbyters. By this it 
is distinguished from the government of the church by a Pope, 
which is the Romish form, and from the government of the 
church by Bishops, which is the old Catholic and the modern 
Anglican form, and from the government of the church by the 
people directly, which is the Congregational form. Ours is the 
eovernment of the church by Presbyters or Elders. Of these there 
are two kinds, teaching Elders or ministers, and ruling Elders. 
Each congregation is therefore governed by the Pastor and ruling 
Elders chosen by itself. Over a number of these congregations is 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 159 


placed the Presbytery which consists likewise of teaching and 
ruling elders. Over a number of Presbyteries 1s the Synod, con- 
sisting of the same elements, and over all is the General Assembly, 
consisting of clerical and lay delegates from each Presbytery. 
These superior bodies are courts of appeal, to which any private 
member can carry his grievances. Thus Presbyterianism aims in 
its form of government to carry out the following great principles. 


|. That the church has no visible head. Jesus Christ alone 
is the head of the church. He has given her laws to which no 
man dare add anything. He has given her a statute-book, from 
which not a jot can be taken away. Presbyterianism denies that 
the church can make doctrines or lay down laws binding the con- 
science. Christ only can do that, and by our form of organiza- 
tion did our fathers, in the day when King and Pope claimed 
soverelenty over the church, defend what they call the “Crown 
Rights of Jesus Christ.” 


2. Further, ours is a government of the people by their chosen 
representatives. It 1s a popular government, yet it 1s not a pure 
democracy. It embodies the principle of government by repre- 
sentation. Presbyterianism thus stands midway between mon- 
archy and democracy, for you can find the same principles illus- 
trated in the government of states. Presbyterianism is a constt- 
tutional republic. It has its written constitution and its govern- 
ment of the people by their elected representatives. It is, there- 
fore, the form of government most nearly allied to that of the 
United States of America. Presbyterianism was finally organized 
in America shortly after the National Constitution was written, 
and both embody to a remarkable degree the same spirit. But 
Presbyterianism existed long before the “American Constitution.” 
The fundamental principles of government by elders was adopted 
by the Apostles themselves, from the Jewish Synagogues. The 
clear enunciation of the Presbyterian policy was the work of the 
Swiss and Scotch reformers, in the 16th century. Presbyterianism 
grew with the growth of modern popular government, and was 
the expression in the church of the ideas which were beginning to 
change the form of states; of these latter it was largely the source. 
It is, therefore, conservative republicanism. It is opposed equally 
to monarchy and anarchy, and is thus the form of polity most in 
sympathy with American institutions. 


160 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


3. And hence, Presbyterianism conserves individual liberty, 
and, at the same time, obedience to law. It is equally strenuous 
for personal rights, and for the unity of the church. It is a 
strong form of government. It is a well marshalled army; able to 
act as a unit in the work of evangelization and in the maintenance 
of its discipline. It 1s also a free form of government. It affords 
to the humblest member the same rights and protection as to the 
highest. It teaches every member his direct responsibility to 
God. It bids him examine the Scriptures for himself. It lays 
on him no rule which God has not explicity laid down in His 
Word. It provides considerable room for differences of opinion. 
On the one hand, it unites the whole church into a solid organism; 
on the other, it fosters the sense of personal liberty within the 
limits of divinely prescribed law. 

Presbyterianism, therefore, 1s as a form of government popular, 
conservative, united and tolerant. [It presumes in its people 
intelligence, conviction and respect for law. It is in hearty sym- 
pathy with the progress of true liberty. It is equally tenacious 
in its loyalty to the divine word. It seeks to build up a common- 
wealth of law-abiding freemen, united in the work of proclaiming 
Jesus Christ and his Gospel to all mankind. I do not forget that 
elements of Presbyterianism have been appropriated by other 
denominations, and that in modern times the principles of popular 
government have found their way into systems which used to be 
alien to them, just as they have modified monarchical states. But 
Presbyterianism is the logical and deliberate expression of these 
principles. It fought for them, when others denied and_perse- 
cuted them, and it still remains in the Church of Christ, their de- 
voted guardian. 


II]. Finally, Presbyterianism is Catholic in spirit. [t unites 
with all historic Christendom in the belief of those great doctrines 
which are the foundation stones of Christianity. It joins with the 
universal church in the confession of the early creeds. It is no 
protest against historic Christianity, but claims to be the latter’s 
legitimate product. It unites with all the great branches of the 
Christian church in belief in the Trinity, the Incarnation, the 
Atonement, the Resurrection of Christ and whatsoever else per- 
tains to the historic faith of Christendom. 

Presbyterianism unites also with all Protestant Christians in 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning lol 


supporting the truths battled for in the great Reformation. The 
Reformation was essentially the effort of the church to obtain the 
right authority in matters of religion, and Protestants found this 
in the teaching of the Apostles, and that teaching preserved in its 
purity in the New Testament alone. Hence Presbyterianism 
claims to build on Scripture. To the Bible it makes its appeal. 
With this exception, it proclaims the widest liberty. Every man 
is responsible to God alone. He only is Lord of the conscience, 
and on this principle Presbyterianism rejects all so called doctrines, 
which are not taught in the Bible, or which cannot be logically de- 
duced therefrom. Still further, Presbyterianism unites with those 
branches of the Protestant church, which are called evangelical. 
It holds evangelical Christianity to be the real historic Christian- 
ity, and to be the real Protestantism. It confesses, therefore, 
man’s absolute need of redemption, and his lost condition without 
Christ. It confesses that the death of Christ was a real sacrifice 
for human sin, and the only condition on which God offers justi- 
fication. It confesses that men must be born again in order to 
enter the kingdom of God, and that faith in Jesus Christ is the 
one condition on which salvation is offered to the race. And 
hence, the Presbyterian Church does not claim to be the Church 
of Christ, but a Church of Christ. It welcomes all other believers 
to its sacraments and recognizes theirs. It recognizes the Minis- 
try of other churches. It does not require even its own members, 
unless they be officers, to subscribe its creed. It simply strives 
to do its own work, and is ready to join with other churches in the 
service of the common Lord. 

Therefore, we hold that Presbyterianism is eminently Catholic 
in its spirit, and because it is so, it is supremely loyal to the person 
of Jesus Christ. It preaches Christ. It allows no church or coun- 
cil, no minister, bishop, priest or prince, to come between Christ 
and the believer. It is jealous of His rights. It proclaims that 
man’s only hope is in His righteousness. It labors to carry Him 
to all the world, and to its mind the differences between the 
churches of Christendom sink into insignificance before the saving 
truths which all hold in common. We are Christians first, and 
Presbyterians afterward. Our motto is “Christus levatus Salva- 
tor,’—Christ, lifted up, the Saviour of men. 

Such then are the characteristic marks of Presbyterianism and 


162 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


because of them, it is with no ordinary emotion that we rear 
houses “to the glory of God.” | beg you only to remember that 
“except the Lord build the house, they labor 1n vain that build it.” 
Behind the blow of the workman and the sound of his hammer, 
there must be the silent motion of an unseen arm, rearing a 
Spiritual building of which the material structure is but the 
shadow. Only if you are loyal to Him in thought and life can 
you hope for His co-operation; but with his aid no obstacles can 
overcome you. May the skies be ever bright over this house of 
prayer. May the sunlight of divine favor ever fall upon this 
temple. And that it may be indeed God’s temple, because filled 
with His spirit and builded about His word, is, as we lay its 
corner-stone today, our prayer and hope. 


The audience then joined in singing the hymn, 


The church's one foundation 
Is Jesus Christ her Lord! 

She is his new creation, 
By water and the word! 

From heaven he came and sought her 
To be his holy bride, 

With his own blood he bought her, 
And for her life he died. 


Though, with a scornful wonder, 
Men see her sore opprest, 

By schisms rent asunder, 
By heresies distressed, 

Yet saints their watch are keeping, 
Their cry goes up ‘How long?” 

And soon the night of weeping 
Shall be the morn of song. 


"Mid toil and tribulation, 
And tumult of her war, 
She waits the consummation 
Of peace for evermore. 

Till with the vision glorious, 
Her longing eves are blest, 
And the great church victorious, 
Shall be the church at rest. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 163 


The following articles were placed in the box, which was 
deposited in the corner-stone: 


The Bible. The Confession of Faith. 

A history of the Presbytery of Kittanning. 

Woman's Home Mission Monthly. 

Our Church Magazine, At Home and Abroad. 

Woman's Work for Women. . 

Memorial sermon on the death of Rev. Joseph Painter, D. D., by Rev. 
FE. D: Ewing, D. D. 

Several sermons and addresses of Rev. Dr. Painter. 

A Roll of the members of the church. 

A Roll of the members of the Pastor’s Aid Society. 

Names of the’ members of the Session. 

Names of the Board of Trustees. 

Names of officers of the Foreign Missionary Society. 
officers of the Home Missionary Society. 

Names of officers of the Pastor’s Aid Society. 

Names of officers and teachers in the Sabbath School. 

Names of the members of the Choir. 

Names of the Committee appointed to procure lot upon which the 
church is built. 

Names of the members of the Building Committee. 

Names of the members of the Finance Committee. 

Some old church records. 

A collection of photographs of the members of Presbytery, and also 
some of the aged members of the congregation. 

A catalogue of Washington and Jefferson College. 

A catalogue of Western Theological Seminary. 

Several of the leading religious papers. 

All the papers published in the county. 

Pittsburgh papers containing an account of the Centennial Exercises. 

Campaign badges of the Democratic and Republican Parties. 


Names o 


=H + +, 


Pat a ae ae 
LAYING OF FHE CORNER-STONE 


The corner-stone was laid by the pastor of the Church, the Rev. 
H. L. Mayers, who said: 

As we gather here today to lay the corner-stone of this build- 
ing, to be erected as a place for the service and worship of Almighty 
God, it is but proper there should be a brief enumeration of some 
of the reasons which constrain us to engage in this work. 


First—We want to make acknowledgment of our belief in the 


lo4+ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


fundamental principles of the Christian religion—the presence of 
the one living and true God, who, in the likeness of His Son Jesus 
Christ, dwells among men. We feel this structure will be a con- 
stant witness in the midst of this people to our faith and hope. 


Second—from the very beginning it has been our desire to 
erect this building for the glory of God. As long as it may be 
devoted to sacred uses, our hope and prayer is that here He may 
condescend to receive the praises of men. That our highest joy 
may be found in ascribing honor, and glory, and power, and 
dominion to Him forever and ever. We want it to be a place 
where true religion shall be taught; where the way of life shall 
be made known; where the kingdom of Jesus Christ shall be built 
up; where His blessed and righteous will shall be done. 


7 bird—We want to build this Church as an expression of our 
love and affection. We have been reared under the teachings and 
doctrines of Presbyterianism; we love her forms of worship; we 
believe it will be for the highest and best interests of this com- 
munity 1f they are properly represented here. While the members 
of this congregation may be excused if some pride and ambition is 
found mingling with higher and more worthy motives, yet our 
growing needs and necessities demand another place of worship. 

We are constrained, by many reasons, to build here a house of 
prayer and praise, and for the preaching of the Word. 

Therefore, I lay this corner-stone in the name of the Triune 
God, in the name of God the Father, in the name of God the Son, 
in the name of God the Holy Ghost, to whom be all the glory and 
honor, in a world without end. Amen and Amen. 

Pa R ER OE aR ON bf an, £ 


Prayer was then offered by the Rev. Robert C. Bowling, pastor 
of the Reformed Church, of Kittanning. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. 

Blessed be Thy name, oh, God, that the hearts of these, Thy people, 
have been inspired to commence the building of a temple at this place. 
May this indeed be holy ground; and may this undertaking meet with Thy 
divine favor. Here mayest thou be worshiped in the beauty of holiness: 
here, the true gospel truly preached and lovingly obeyed. Here, Lord, 
may Thy people be comforted in affliction and sorrow; and here may they 
be instructed in holy things; the living prepared for life, and the dying 
prepared for death. Prosper Thou this people in their christian enterprise 
Keep and preserve, by Thy providence, to the end, the work now so suc- 
cessfully begun, in Thy name; and grant unto this entire congregation the 
spirit of perseverance, earnestness, unity, and love. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 1605 


Excite the skill, and animate the industry of the workmen upon and 
within these walls, and grant unto them: the fullness of grace. Aid _ all 
assembled here this day, to seek to become, in body, soul and spirit, living 
temples of the Holy Ghost; and encourage us to greater preparations for 
“that eternal city which hath foundations, whose maker and builder is God.” 

We praise Thee, O God; we acknowledge Thee to be the Lord. All the 
earth 1s full of the majesty of Thy glory. We praise Thee for the founding 
of Thy church in the world. We thank Thee for her ministry, for her 
sacred oracles, for her preached word, and for her holy sacraments. 

We, especially today, adore Thee, for this immediate manifestation of 
Thy presence and power. We adore Thee for the contemplated erection of 
a house, in which Thine Honor shalt love to dwell. Accept, we pray Thee, 
the love of our hearts, and the labor of our hands. Here may Thy presence 
dwell; here, Thy glory be revealed. 

At all times may the people, who shall worship here, be moistened 
with the dews of Heaven. When they shall here bring to Thee their sacri- 
fices of thanksgiving, then may their joy be indeed full, and when in sea- 
sons of distress, they here implore mercy, and aid and guidance, then dear 
Lord be pleased to hear them, pity them, support, comfort, strengthen and 
save them. 

Hear us now, Thou God of all grace, Thou Father of life and light, Thou 
fountain of all good. Thou blessed Saviour hear us, and may the services 
of this day and hour come up acceptably before Thee. And as this house 
is founded on the solid rock of nature, may Thy people’s faith be founded 
upon the more enduring Rock of Ages—Thou blessed Jesus, Thou being the 
chief cornerstone of that spiritual temple, not made with hands, eternal in 
the Heavens. 

And unto Thee, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost; One ever blessed Trinity, 
be everlasting praise, honor and Glory—AMEN. 


Cae oy tee oe ae 


Doxology, “Praise God from whom all blessing flow.” 

The benediction was pronounced by the Rev. Michael Sweigart, 
for forty years the honored representative of the German Lutheran 
Church, of Kittanning. 

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. 

The walls of the superstructure were built up to the “square” 
and then covered over for protection from the elements. Work 
was suspended for the winter, and being resumed in the spring 
went right on, although more than a year elapsed before the 
church was ready for occupancy. The “Farewell and Dedicatory 
Services’ covered a whole week. They began in the old church 
June 8, 1890, and concluded in the new one June 15. 


106 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Farewell Services in the Old Church 
SUNDAY, JUNE 8TH, 9 A. M. 


SABBATH SCHOOL 
G. W. DoversPIkE, Superintendent, Presiding 


DEVO LIONAESE SERGISES 


SOME EARLY RECOLLECTIONS 


Of the Sabbath School of the First Presbyterian Church 
From the Year Eighteen Hundred and Thirty-Eight 
to Eighteen Hundred and Sixty. 


Mrs. CarRoLiINE ROBINSON CRAWFORD 


In 1838, I was a little girl like those in the infant class at the 
present time. The old church had but one room which was used 
for preaching, prayer-meeting, Sunday school and all other meet- 
ings connected with church services. 

It was a large, square, one-storied, brick building standing on 
the present site of this church, with the gable end to the street. 
Two wide doors opened into the church aisles, which were two in 
number, one at either side of the audience room. 

The pews were very long and very high-backed; and small 
children were lost to view on entering their classes. The teacher 
was obliged to stand and lean over the pew while teaching. The 
pulpit was very high, doubtless to enable the preacher to see into 
the pews. 

My first teacher was the wife of General Robert Orr, and, as | 
remembered her then and through her later hfe, was a most 
estimable woman, with a lovely christian character. My next 
teacher was Miss Ibbie Cogley, a sister of Mrs. Matilda Robinson, 
of whom I remember very little, as she taught but a short time 
before being married and leaving town. The Misses Mary and 
Sarah McKee, daughters of Mr. Samuel McKee, the precentor at 
church and Sunday school at that time, were my next instructors, 
for a short time. 

Miss Jane Bratton Brown, the late Mrs. J. B. Finlay, was my 
next teacher. Her father, Mr. James E. Brown, was also my 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 167 


teacher, and | suppose I had others, but cannot remember them, 
never having expected to be called upon to remember and speak 
of them fifty years hence. 

Teaching in those days was more of an undertaking than it is 
at the present time, there being no lesson helps, only a question 
book for teachers, the scholars using Bible or Testament. The 
lessons were longer than now and we were required to commit 
them to memory, besides catechism and hymns—good solid hymns 
from Watt’s hymn book, such as “Lord in the morning thou shalt 
hear my voice ascending high,” “Thus far the Lord hath led me 
on,” “God is the refuge of his saints,’ and “Alas, and did my 
Saviour bleed,” &c. This book being used in the Sunday school 
as well as in the church service. 

There were no Sunday school papers in those days and most of 
the library books were dry reading. Mr. Jeremiah Bonner was the 
first librarian | remember. One thing that impressed him on my 
memory as a child was his manner of wearing his hair, which be- 
ing cut straight across his forehead resembled the bangs of the 
present day. The late John V. Painter was one of the librarians. 
It was the custom for each teacher to go to the library and bring 
the books to their classes. We were hard to please, just as the 
children are now, and sometimes the teacher had to make several 
trips to the library before we were suited. 

I remember Miss Jane B. Brown telling us on one occasion, 
“that she could not go so often as it would wear out her shoes.” 
We believed her of course and took what she brought us. 

We were required to read the books whether we liked them or 
not. The teacher questioned us as to the contents, and if we 
failed to give an intelligible summary we were compelled to read 
them again. That was the way they did in the good old times. 

One instance | recall: Mr. Brown, in teaching us the names of 
the books of the New Testament, and finding us either dull or care- 
less about remembering them, said “just think of this little rhyme: 


“Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, 
Saddle the cat and I'll get on,” 


and there was at least one who never forgot that lesson. 
The first Superintendent | recall was the late Josiah Copley, a 
man of more than ordinary ability as teacher, scholar and writer, 


1608 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


being the author of several books and numerous letters published 
in the Presbyter1an Banner. Mr. Alex. Colwell was one of the 
early superintendents and teachers, and was instrumental in many 
ways in establishing the church and school on a solid foundation, 
where his children and his children’s children are still to be found. 
Mr. J. E. Brown was also one of the early superintendents, of 
whom there is no need to tell, as most of you can remember him 
and how much he did for this school. One feature of his benevo- 
lence was providing tracts for monthly distribution, in which 
Sarah Arnold and myself took a part, receiving many a “God 
bless you” from the old ladies about the Rolling Mill. Then my 
father, A. L. Robinson, had his share in the early history of this 
school, particularly in regard to the music, in which he made great 
improvements. Following these were the Rev. John Kerr, of 
Parnassus, Pa., the late Rev. Jas. Mason, of Davenport, Iowa, John 
R. Johnston, Esq., W. W. Hastings, Rev. Henry Painter, of Chi- 
cago, Rev. D. Hall, of Indiana, Pa., J. Alex. Fulton, of Dover, Del., 
Hon. P. kK. Bowman, S. S. White, and the late Thomas McConnell 
all of whom acted 1n the capacity of superintendents as well as 
teachers. 

The following are the names of some of the teachers—MuIss 
Sarah A. Colwell, Miss Lydia McKee, Miss Mary McCullough, 
Miss Martha Robinson, Mrs. S. S. White, Miss Bell Arnold, Miss 
Martha Davison and the Misses Sarah and Hannah Painter. 

The Superintendents were elected every three months, who con- 
ducted a public examination of the lesson, he naming the class 
expected to answer. The children, as a rule, answered well, doing 
credit to their teachers. 

A custom that was always observed in the olden time, when a 
member left the school, was to hold a farewell service on the last 
day of their attendance, and on the death of a member a memorial 





service was held. 

In the good old times we always celebrated the Fourth of July 
in the most patriotic manner. There were only three schools in 
town at that time: Episcopalian, Methodist Episcopal and Pres- 
byterian. They celebrated by having a union picnic on that day. 
Each school leaving its church marched to the Court House, which 
stood on the site of the present business house of J. A. Gault & 
Co., but back from the street, leaving a very wide pavement. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 169 


Having reached this place, two of the schools were divided into 
single file at either side of the pavement and the third school, 
which was to lead the procession, marched between the lines and 
led by a martial band to the tune of “Long-tailed Blue” 
or “The Girl | Left Behind Me”, took its place at the head. The 
others fell into line and the procession marched to some near-by 
grove. A brass band was rare in those days and we 
thought the music of the fife and drum most inspiring and 
marched off at a lively pace. When the grove was reached ll 
were seated, while the Declaration of Independence was read by one 
of our patriotic citizens, as the Hon. Darwin Phelps, Robt. W. 
Smith, or some other. Then we had addresses, music, etc., all be- 
fore dinner and had just as good things to eat then as now. Either 
the children’s appetites were not so keen then as now, or they had 
more patience, for my recollection is that we waited very patiently 
for our dinner. We always had one long table with benches at 
either side and all were seated but those in waiting. After every- 
thing was over we were marshalled into line and marched back to 
the Court House to be dismissed. 

But time would fail to tell of all the good people that have 
been connected with the school. 

Col. J. B. Finlay and Rev. Dr. D. H. Sloan appearing on the 
scene about this time, and being progressive as well as wide awake 
men, made many changes which added greatly to the interest of 
the school and as both of these gentlemen are present, I will leave 
them to finish the story, and close these reminiscences with a 
greeting to J. A. Colwell, as the only other person in the school 
now that was in it in 1838. 


HISTORY AND REMINISCENCES 
Bye a MINA MeL ge). L). (e ls 


AnD. 1ST LA. D. 1800. KPT TANNING A.D. 1806 eA D. 1890. 
Was first laid out in 1803—on the east side of the Allegheny 
River, about 45 miles northeast of the city of Pittsburgh, on a 
beautiful flat of 150 acres, purchased from the heirs of General 
Armstrong, after whom the county has been called, of which it is 
ihe seat of justice. 


170 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


On the 8th of September, 1757, it was the site of an Indian town 
—the headquarters of the famous six nations—known as “kKatta- 
tana” or ““Katayana,” which meant “Long corn,” from the tall and 
productive cereals which grew on the banks of the river. The Chief 
was called Captain Jacobs, who lived in a house on the same site 
on which the residence of Alexander Reynolds, Esq., now stands. 
There were over forty other houses in the ancient town. It was an 
important stronghold. Vast quantities of gun-powder, fire arms, 
and other provisions were stored there by the French. It was the 
intermediate station between French town—now Franklin—and 
Fort Du Quesne—now Pittsburgh. Everywhere the Indians had 
become allies of the French, and had no qualms of conscience 
about prosecuting the plans of their wily employers. 

At that time, from the mouth of the St. Lawrence to the 
western extremity of Lake Superior, and thence down the Missis- 
sippl valley to the Gulf of Mexico; and from Lake Erie to French 
town, and thence down the Allegheny valley to Fort Du Quesne, 
the French had erected stations and garrisoned fortresses. Be- 
tween the Allegheny and Ohio valleys on the west and the Atlantic 
Ocean a different people had settled. Upon these settlers the 
Indians had committed the most fearful outrages, assassinations, 
murders and robberies. 

Throughout Western Pennsylvania the lives and possessions of 
the colonists were in continual danger from these wild men of the 
west. 10 suppress their depredations, Colonel Armstrong was dis- 
patched with 300 followers, who, marching to the Indian head- 
quarters, defeated the enemy, liberated the prisoners, and burned 
their citadel, and thus dealt the first fatal blow to French ascen- 
dancy throughout the northwestern territory which was soon after- 
wards extinguished over the American Continent. 

The newly laid out town of Kittanning had four streets run- 
ning parallel with the Allegheny River, crossed by eight others at 
right angles—forming twenty-six squares. One acre on the south- 
east corner of Jefferson and Market streets was reserved for a 
Court House, and another on the northwest corner of Mclean 
and Market streets for a Jail—both of which were erected—one of 
brick and the other of stone—in 1812. 

In 1821, an Academy, with a grant of $2,000 from the State, 
was erected on a part of the Court House lot—facing Jefferson 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 171 


Street. Both the Court House and the Academy became memor- 
able in the literary and religious history of the place—as affording 
accommodations for the different religious denominations to meet 
for public worship until they had furnished such houses for them- 
selves. 

In the year last mentioned, the town of Kittanning was erected 
into a Borough, and a Burgess, a Council, and other officials were 
appointed in due conformity to law; for at that time, and for 
many years subsequently, Judges, Justices of the Peace, and other 
officers were usually appointed by the Chief Executive of the State, 
during life or good behavior. 

Some time in 1805, the Rev. Joseph W. Henderson, a ministerial 
member of the Presbytery of Redstone, on his way from Pitts- 
burg to the Cowanshannock congregation, preached in the infant 
town of Kittanning, where he found a number of the inhabitants 
desirous of having the ordinances of the gospel dispensed to them, 
in accordance with the faith and practices of the Presbyterian 
Church. Accordingly a Request for such supplies was made by 
them to the Presbytery of Redstone on the 16th of April, 1806, 
which was granted; and the following clergymen from time to 
time, at the different Presbyterian meetings, were respectively ap- 
pointed to visit and conduct the public worship of the congrega- 
tion, and perform such other ministerial duties therein, as the same 
might require. 

In 1806, Rev. Messrs. Henderson, Speer, Graham and Gal- 
braith, each one day. In 1807, Rev. Messrs. Porter, Henderson 
and Laird, each one day. In 1808, Rev. Jos. W. Henderson, one 
day. In 1809, Rev. Mr. Moore, on first Sabbath of November. 
In 1810, Rev. Messrs. Porter, Laird and Graham, each one day. 
In 1811, Rev. Messrs. Moore, Laird and Graham, each one day. 
In 1812, Rev. Joseph W. Henderson, oné day. In 1813, Rev. 
Robert Lee, two days, and Mr. Hunt, one day. In 1814, Rev. 
Robert Lee, two Sabbaths. In 1815, Rev. Robert Lee, four Sab- 
baths. In 1816, Rev. J. Stockton, at discretion. In 1817, Rev. 
Messrs. Guthrie, Lee and Reed, each a Sabbath. In 1818, Rev. 
Joseph W. Henderson, one Sabbath. In 1820, Rev. Robert Lee, 
one Sabbath. In 1821, Rev. Messrs. John Reed one, and Robert 
Lee, two Sabbaths.. In 1822, Mr. Thomas Davis, a Licentiate, the 
fourth Sabbath in February, and five in July and August; and Rev. 





172 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


David Barclay on first Sabbath of each alternate month between 
‘the fall and spring meetings of Presbytery. 

During Mr. Davis’ preaching, the people became desirous of 
calling him to be their pastor, and to become organized into a 
church. As he was only a Licentiate, he invited the Rev. John 
Andrews to officiate on the occasion. Accordingly on the 3Ist of 
August, 1822, Mr. Andrews attended, and after a sermon by Mr. 
Davis, proceeded to organize the church. Twenty-one members 
were enrolled. Three Ruling Elders, Thomas Hamilton, David 
Johnston and John Patrick were ordained, and the Sacrament of 
the Lord’s Supper, the next day, duly celebrated.* 

A call for one-half of his time, at a salary of $200 per annum, 
was moderated, sent to Presbytery, approved and presented to, but 
declined by Mr. Davis. 

In 1823, Presbytery appointed the Rev. Messrs. Barclay and 
Davis to administer the Communion in the church, on the first 
Sabbath of September, and to obtain an annual report from the 
congregation, whose members then numbered twenty-seven. 

In 1824, the Rev. Nathaniel R. Snowden, Jesse Smith and 
John Reed administered the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, and 
admitted five members. 

In 1825, by request of the Congregation, Presbytery allowed 
the Rev. Nathaniel P. Snowden to supply the church for two years, 
with two-thirds of his time; and in the spring of 1826, forty mem- 
bers were reported to Presbytery. A new era was the dream of 
the infant organization. She had now got a Moses to lead her 
safely to the promised land, without the meekness or judgment of 
the Hebrew law-giver. Her dream in that respect was soon sadly 
disturbed. Differences arose between the stated supply and some 
of the people. Money 1s said to be the root of all evil; and its 
want proved to bea stinging evil on that occasion. Starving 
horses become fierce; starving men become equally unaccountable. 
Mr. Snowden was not altogether happy in some of his family 
relations. He did not receive a competency from his professional 
avocations. He could not live on the atmosphere. He and _ his 
family were human beings subject to hunger and other privations. 
Under such circumstances, every man is not calculated to be either 





* For a list of the original names of the Communicants at the organization, see Appendix A. 
John Patrick died a year afterwards, leaving David Johnston and Thomas Hamilton sur- 
viving Elders. 


History of First Presbytertan Church of Kittanning 173 





a saint or an angel, although some of his people thought that—at 
least on the salary promised but which was slowly if ever paid— 
their preacher should be more than mortal. Charges were filed 
against him in Presbytery. An examination was made and both 
sides were admonished for their delinquencies. Bitter recrimina- 
tions ensued. Entanglements followed which could not be un- 
folded. To crown the whole, a fox hunt was instituted in the 
neighborhood; and the incautious minister attended. Serious 
charges of indiscretion were rumored. The minister was reported 
to have been intoxicated; and this public fame resulted 1n his sus- 
pension from the exercise of his ministry on the testimony of per- 
sonal enemies, without regard to the weight of counter evidence 
adduced in his behalf. No Court of law would have condemned 
the lowest degraded wretch on such paltry statements as were alleg- 
ed against him; showing that even among the good old people of 
the days gone by, jealousy, prejudice and bitterness were as promi- 
nent as they were undignified, unjust and unchristian. 

For two years the Domine was kept silent. At last he was re- 
stored and passed into the bounds of another field of labor.* 

In 1828, Mr. James Campbell, a Licentiate from the Presby- 
tery of New Brunswick, began his labors here; and by a report to 
Presbytery the membership had arisen to forty-three in number; 
while in the following year it arose to forty-seven. The Com- 
munion was administered by the Rev. Dr. Barrett, who, on the 
third Sabbath of the following May officiated in like manner. 

On the 17th of August, 1829, the church was called upon to be- 
wail the loss of another of its Elders, Thomas Hamilton, a man 
devoted to the welfare and growth of the congregation, whose piety, 
zeal and fidelity were known and acknowledged by the community. 
He was a lawyer, a scholar, and a gentleman of distinguished in- 
tellectual ability; and by his last Will and Testament bequeathed 
four hundred dollars towards the erection of a new church edifice; 
and also an additional amount for the purchase of a bible for each 
of his old friends and acquaintances in the Borough, irrespective of 
denominational tendencies. 

In the year 1830, before commencing the erection of the new 
House of Worship, the congregation adopted a Constitution which 
was subscribed by all the members and adherents. 





* He was the father of Hon. James Ross Snowden, of Philadelphia, and the father-in-law of 
the Hon. James Thompson. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. He was 
considered a popular preacher, of scholarly attainments and dignified appearance. 


174 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


On the 5th of June, the same year, a Call was moderated for 
three-fourths of Mr. James Campbell’s time, at a salary of $300 
per annum; and, on the following day, the congregation of Crooked 
Creek gave him another Call for the remaining one-fourth of his 
time, at $100 per annum. Both Calls were accepted, and, on the 
11th of August, he was ordained and installed Pastor of the 
church. 

By a resolution of the Synod of Pittsburgh, in October of the 
Same year, the Kevs. |: W.- Henderson, Francis” Lairds David 
Barclay, James Graham, Thomas Davis, Samuel Swan, John 
Reed, Jesse Smith, Samuel McFarren, John H. Kirkpatrick, Elisha 
D. Barrett and James Campbell were set apart into a body to be 
called the Presbytery of Blairsville. 

Mr. Campbell did not long continue in the pastorate. On or 
about the 4th of October, 1831, he demitted his charge, and the 
congregation became vacant. 

On the 8th of July, 1830, the Board, consisting of David 
Johnston, A. Colwell, J. E. Brown, Chambers Orr, John R. 
Johnston, Samuel McKee and S. S. Harrison, entered into two con- 
tracts with Archy Dickey: One, to build a new House of Worship, 
for the consideration of $988.75; the other, to erect a pulpit and 
pews therein for $469.5914; when the whole was completed, there 
were extras of 52.2214; making the entire cost amount to $1510.57. 
To meet these obligations they had only Thomas Hamilton’s 
legacy of $400, and subscriptions amounting to $630, leaving a 
balance due the contractor of $480.57. 

The new House of Worship was a brick structure, one story 
high, fifty feet wide by fifty feet deep, with one window on each 
side of the pulpit, and three on each side of the church. Two 
doors, in front, opened into two aisles, which extended to another 
aisle across the interior, in front of the pulpit. The last was wider 
than either of the others. Five pews were on either side of the pul- 
pit. Twelve others were on the north side of the aisle on the north 
side; twelve more were on the south side of the aisle on the south 
side; and twenty-four were 1n the middle of the house between the 
two aisles. There were altogether fifty-eight pews in the church. 
On the Communion Sabbath, a long table was placed in the cross 
aisle before the pulpit, with corresponding seats on either side. 
The Communicants, instead of sitting in their pews, as they do 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 175 


now, while partaking of the elements, then arose from their seats, 
slowly walking and singing, at the same time approaching the 
table, sat down thereat. The Officiating minister served each 
table by handing the elements to the Elders to be given to the par- 
takers, and delivering an address on the nature of the occasion and 
character of the Communton. Where a number of ministers at- 
tended, the one followed the other in rotation with an address to 
those at each table. 

A Communion was a season of the highest importance— 
—deepest interest, and greatest regard, in those times; and in all 
branches of the Presbyterian Church throughout the world gen- 
erally the same mode of celebrating the Lord’s Supper prevailed. 
It was also the common custom observed 1n all the Congregational 
Churches of both Europe and America. At length one of the 
prominent Congregational Churches in Boston discarded the use 
of the long table and adopted the less troublesome way of dis- 
tributing the elements to the Communicants in their pews, which 
eradually became adopted by the New England churches and also 
by most of the Presbyterian Churches in the cities, and subse- 
quently throughout the country. In Scotland, Ireland, Australia, 
and even in part of this country, the old mode 1s still observed, by 
certain bodies of Christians whom the world perhaps denominate 
old-fashioned, and not in keeping with the age. But it 1s question- 
able whether the New England mode 1s an improvement on the old 
custom. 

The Boston system is less troublesome, but more devoid of the 
solemnity and impressiveness which the old mode was calculated 
to make, on both the Communicants and the spectators. Another 
custom was to admit each Communicant by a token, which was 
generally a small oblong piece of lead with the word “Token” 
stamped upon it. On the Saturday preceding the Communion Sab- 
bath, at the close of the service, the Session gave each intending 
Communicant a token, which admitted him or her to the Com- 
munion [Table next day; and without which, no one was allowed to 
approach the “Lord’s Table.” Both the “Table” and “Token” 
were abolished, and the present mode adopted, about thirty years 
ago by this Church. 

At the time the First Church began to be erected a popula- 
tion of the Borough only numbered 526, with 90 dwellings; 10 


1706 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


stores; 5 taverns; 3 tanneries; 3 smiths; 5 lawyers and 3 physi- 
clans. 

After that the Rev. James Campbell demitted the pastorate 1n 
October, 1831; other Congregations began to erect Houses of 
Worship, with stated services, which drew off a number of the peo- 
ple to their respective sanctuaries. 

Since the 3Ilst of August, 1822, until the 4th of October, 1831, 
fifty-nine persons had been admitted to the Communion of the 
Church, of whom seven had died, one had been suspended, and 
twenty-five had withdrawn to other Communions, leaving at the 
close of the year 1833, only twenty-six members on the roll of the 
Church. 

Various causes combined to produce this result; the uncer- 
tainty of a settled pastorate, played doubtless an important part 
in the present condition of affairs. Many of the people had been 
discouraged on account of the recent turmoils in the congregation, 
and the action of the Presbytery 1n connection with Mr. Snowden’s 
cases; there was no very bright outlook for the future prosperity 
of a congregation whose internal management had not met with 
the general approbation of its members. Besides, advantage was 
taken by the recent organizations to produce an unfavorable 1m- 
pression on the weak minded against the doctrine and ordinances 
of the Church. An important element of their pulpit instructions 
was not unfrequently a fierce denunciation of the “soul destruc- 
tive doctrine of Calvinism,” which was calculated to have a cor- 
responding influence on minds not fully in sympathy or embued 
with the principles of the Church. To the unstable, such thrusts 
have always proved unbearable, and created in them a restless, 
wandering spirit; while the conservative, intelligent and intellec- 
tual have remained, irrespective of all contingencies, loyal to their 
church and true to her principles. 

At length a new era began to dawn. A man of intelligence, 
combining good taste, sound judgment, deep thought, pru- 
dence, piety, learning and ability appeared in the person of the 
Rev. Joseph Painter,—a Master of Arts of Union College, 
Schnectady, N. Y.—and a member of the Presbytery of North- 
umberland, in connection with the General Assembly of the Pres- 
byterian Church in the United States of America. The Church ex- 
tended to him a Call, which he accepted, and was installed its 





ea 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning ia 


pastor, by the Presbytery of Blairsville, on the I4th day of 
November, 1834. 

In 1837, Kittanning is described as having 9 stores, 4 taverns, 
3 tanneries, 2 plough and wagon manufactories, one tin and copper 
smith, a Presbyterian, an Episcopal, and a Methodist church; 
good private buildings; 140 children, male and female, taught 
separately in a Day School; three Sunday Schools, a female 
Seminary, five different denominations: Presbyterians, Episco- 
palians, Methodists, Lutherans and Associate Presbyterians; three 
Justices of the Peace; 9 lawyers; 2 physicians; 5 clergymen: Rev. 
John Dickey, of the Associate Presbyterian; Rev. Joseph Painter, 
Presbyterian; Rev. B. B. Killikelly, Episcopalian; Rev. G. A. 
Reichert, Lutheran; and Rev. D. W. Hawkins, Methodist; 2 
Weekly Newspapers; and 10 merchants. 

After the death of Rev. John Dickey, ministers of the Asso- 
ciate Reformed Church visited Kittanning, and in 1845, through 
the services of the Rev. Isaiah Niblock, D. D., of Butler, organ- 
ized a church in this place, to which the Rev. John N. Dick was 
called on the 16th of October, 1849, to be its pastor; and owing to 
his position on both Psalmody and slavery he very soon drew to- 
gether a large congregation of all whose views were in harmony 
with his denomination. Several valuable members withdrew from 
the Presbyterian and united with his church. 

On the 12th of April, 1856, a cyclone visited Kittanning and 
blew down the new bridge which spanned the Allegheny River, 
and the old church around which so many memories clustered. 
(Incorrect statement. Ed.) 

It was a trying event for the congregation, which had never 
been able to get all its debts fully liquidated, to meet this new 
emergency. 

The Trustees then in office were General Robert Orr, W. W. 
Hastings, Joseph McCartney, Dr. John T. Crawford, Alexander 
McCullough, A. L. Robinson and J. Alexander Fulton. Nothing 
daunted by the catastrophe, they determined to re-build the 
church. Meanwhile the Vestry of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 
very kindly offered them the use of that Church for Divine Ser- 
vice. At the same time the County Commissioners placed the use 
of the Court House at their disposal. Gratefully acknowledging 
and thanking the Vestry for their courtesy they accepted that of 


178 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


the County Commissioners, and the Public Worship of the Church 
was accordingly conducted in the Court House. 

Architects’ plans were not then in vogue. On the site of the 
former, a new structure was to be erected with a basement ten, and 
a main audience room twenty feet high, seventy-two in length, and 
forty-eight in breadth, and to be in conformity with the former 
structure as to the interior. The basement was to be divided into 
two departments, one for the prayer meeting, and the other for the 
Sunday School; and the entrance to both rooms to be on the south 
side. Such was the general outline agreed upon for the new edifice. 

Propositions for its construction were sought. Mr. Marcus 
Hulings offered to complete it for $3,600. 

By reducing the basement wall, one foot; the main audience 
room, two feet; dispensing with the end windows and pew doors; 
it was agreed between the Board and the Contractor that $3,500 
would be the consideration; and a contract was executed by the 
parties accordingly. Ultimately the Board required other altera- 
tions. At last the house was completed at a cost of $3,900, and 
was duly dedicated to the Great Head of the Church on the 15th 
of January, 1857. The devotional exercises were conducted by the 
Pastor, Rev. Dr. Painter; the dedication prayer of Solomon was 
read by Dr. J. B. Finlay; and the sermon was preached by the Rev. 
Dr. Plumer, who was alike distinguished for his learning, ability 
and eloquence. He was a Master in Israel in whom there was no 
guile. 

On the next evening, by request, Dr. Finlay delivered a dis- 
course on the Perpetuity of the Church from the words of Moses, 
“T will now turn aside, and see this great sight why the bush is not 
burnt;” and on Saturday afternoon, Dr. McElwain of Indiana; 
preached on “The nature and character of the Church of Christ.” 

Thus from the debris of the old, the new Church arose. At 
that time, its design and architecture were highly praised. At 
least outside of the cities, it was considered one of the most attrac- 
tive churches of the country; although to what order of architecture 
it was annexed, no one has ever been able to discover. 

At a congregational meeting held on November, 1859, James 
McCullough; Jo-Ss Quigley, J: Bz Finlay, J. Ko-CGalhoun; eke 
Crawford, Joseph McCartney and J. Alexander Fulton were elect- 
ed Trustees; and on the 16th of January, 1860, at another congre- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 179 


gational meeting, J. B. Finlay, John Robinson, P. K. Bowman, and 
Marcus Hulings were chosen members of Session,—and were sub- 
sequently qualified accordingly. 


ORI GINIOFSIHESASSISTANT PAS TORA LE 


At the first meeting of the Board of Trustees above mentioned, 
held on the 25th of November, 1859, in view of the age of the 
Pastor, it was deemed expedient to provide assistance for his min- 
isterial services; and J. S. Quigley was requested to confer with him 
about the propriety of an assistant; with which Dr. Painter ex- 
pressed himself satisfied, on condition that all arrearages due him 
would be paid and his salary guaranteed during his lifetime. 

At the ensuing congregational meeting, by the Treasurer’s re- 
port it appeared that the salary agreed to be paid to Dr. Painter 
was only $500 per annum, but of which the amount actually paid 
did not exceed $375 annually; and that there was due him a bal- 
ance of some $850; and a similar amount for the erection of the 
church to Marcus Hulings; in addition to a number of claims to 
others. 

To meet these obligations the pew rents were insufficient. New 
life was required to be infused into the pulpit, the pews and the 
management of the church. In order to promote the first, private 
subscriptions to the amount of $205 were secured. 

Five young gentlemen, students of the Western Theological 
Seminary, Messrs. Beatty, Colmery, Nichols, Jackson and Hays 
were secured to preach on alternate Sabbaths. 

Messrs. Colmery, Nichols and Jackson occupied the pulpit each 
a day; Mr. Beatty four days; and Mr. Hays, thirteen days, during 
the spring and summer of 1860. 

Mr. Nichols is now the distinguished Dr. Nichols, of St. Louis, 
Mo.; Mr. Beatty was the popular first pastor of the Shadyside 
Church, Pittsburgh, Pa.; Mr. Hays is the celebrated Dr. George 
P. Hays, for a time President of Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege, but now of Kansas City, Mo. Of Messrs. Colmery and Jack- 
son memory cannot recall their whereabouts. 

Owing to the great interest created by the Sabbath School and 
the new life infused into the pulpit, the attendance of the congre- 
gation grew daily in numbers. 

Finally, Mr. Hays became the favorite of a majority of the 


180. = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


people, who were anxious to secure him for the assistant pastorate. 
For this purpose a congregational meeting was convened. A mem- 
ber of the Presbytery was invited to preside. A number of persons 
who are not now connected with the church, many of whom by the 
old Constitution were considered unqualified for voting, seemed 
to have entertained the notion that Dr. Painter should be removed 
without further consideration, and that Mr. Hays be elected in his 
place; and a motion to that effect was made and seconded and thus 
sprung upon the meeting, which was opposed by the more con- 
servative members on the ground that such a course of procedure 
would be a violation of good faith with the venerable Pastor, and 
that the congregation should first honestly pay all that it owed to 
him and secure to him the payment of his salary during his natural 
life. 

Ultimately, the call, as originally intended, was agreed to and 
duly signed by the proper authorities, but subsequently declined. 

For a time, misconceptions of the reasons why some were op- 
posed to the removal of Dr. Painter gave rise to embittered feel- 
ings, promoted by misrepresentations usually arising from the 
heated imaginations of interested parties; but gradually sober 
second thoughts and wiser counsels prevailed. None of Mr. Hays’ 
friends could possibly have admired him more than those who only 
desired justice to be done to their aged Pastor. The only differ- 
ence between the parties seemed to be that the one desired to have 
justice honestly and honorably done to Dr. Painter in accordance 
with his pre-arrangement with both the Session of the Church and 
the Board of Trustees; while the others deemed such not binding 
upon them. 

_ The position of the conservatives was sustained by the Pres- 
bytery of Saltsburg, under whose advice it was amicably arranged 
that as soon as the congregation had fully paid up all arrearages, 
and legally guaranteed his salary during his natural life, that Dr. 
Painter would retire from the active duties of the Pastorate, hold- 
ing the office of Pastor in Retirement. All of which was duly 
carried out by the church to his entire satisfaction. 

On the recommendation of the Rev. Dr. Donaldson, of Elders- 
ridge, Mr. T. D. Ewing, a student of Theology, was selected for 
the assistant pastorate in accordance with the above described ar- 
rangement, at a salary of $800 per annum; but as there were no 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 181 


funds in the Treasury to meet that amount, the same was raised 
by private subscriptions for the first year. On the 10th of May, 
1864, the Presbytery of Saltsburg assembled in the church for the 
purpose of conducting his ordination services. By previous 
arrangement, the sermon was preached by the Rev. Wm. M. Pax- 
ton, D. D., LL. D., then Pastor of the First Church of Pittsburgh, 
now of Princeton Theological Seminary, N. J., the constitutional 
questions, propounded by the Rev. D. W. Townsand; the Ordin- 
ation Prayer, by the Rev. Dr. Painter; the charge to the Pastor, 
by the Rev. Alex. Donaldson, D. D.; the charge to the People, by 
the Rev. W. W. Woodend, D. D., and Presbyterianism explained 
by the Rev. A. McElwain, D. D. Thus Mr. Ewing was pleasantly 
ordained and installed Assistant Pastor of the Church. 

Under his ministry the Church was greatly prospered; so much 
so that after the first year, the Trustees found their funds sufficient 
for the payment of the salaries of both Pastors. 

Ten years after the erection of the edifice, it needed necessary 
repairs and improvements. To meet the expense, the people re- 
sponded with liberal subscriptions. 

On the first of June, 1873, the venerable and aged Dr. Painter 
departed. He died on the day of all others he loved so well, the 
Holy Sabbath. No other stood so high in the community. He 
was beloved by all his people, as the true type of a Christian gentle- 
man. He was a profound thinker, a theologian of the old school, 
whose sermons were more adapted to be delivered from the rostrum 
than from the pulpit. As a teacher of Theological Students, he 
would have been surpassed by few. His pulpit preparations were 
accurately made. There was nothing sensational, nothing hetero- 
dox, in his preaching. He never assumed to be the saint, and the 
occupants of the pews, the sinners; never denounced, but always 
so spoke and acted that every sinner really felt that the noble 
looking kindly face of the preacher was that of a sincere, honest, 
upright saint, and so acted towards him accordingly. 

Seven years afterwards, the Rev. T. D. Ewing demitted his 
pastorate of the Church having accepted the Presidency of Parsons 
College, at Fairfield, lowa, which he has since relinquished and 
assumed the pastoral charge of a church in another part of that 
State. 


182 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


THE NEW CHURCH BUILDING 


The new structure is capacious, tasteful and modern; divided 
into a Main Audience, Sabbath School, and other chambers, by 
sliding and other doors, handsomely seated and superbly furnish- 
ed. Beautiful Memorial windows decorate the chambers. One 
immediately back of the Superintendent’s desk, in the Sabbath 
School Room, to the memory of James E. Brown, who for over 
forty years was Superintendent of the School, was erected by his 
granddaughter, Mrs. Elwina Finlay Linton, of Brighton, England; 
another in the parlor, was placed by the young people of the Con- 
eregation; while in the Main Audience Chamber are, one to the 
memory of the late Mrs. Dr. Painter; another to Mrs. Dr. Ewing; 
another to Mrs. H. L. Mayers; another to Mrs. Jane Reynolds; 
and another to Mrs. Alexander Colwell, Mrs. H. H. Calhoun, and 
Miss Madge H. Crawford, by their representative families and 
relatives. 

On the afternoon of the same day, a Memorial Tablet, placed 
by the Trustees of the Church to commemorate the services of the 
venerable Dr. Painter, from 1834 to 1873, was unveiled, and a 
eulogistic discourse delivered by the Rev. Dr. Ewing; and on the 
same evening, brief, interesting and appropriate addresses, inter- 
spersed with other devotional exercises, were made by the Rev. R. 
C. Bowling, of St. Luke’s Reformed Church; Rev. H. W. Elson, 
of St. John’s Lutheran Church; Rev. J. H. LaRoche, of St. Paul’s 
Protestant Episcopal Church; Rev. David McCaw, of the First 
United: Presbyterian, Churchs Rev. Hoy HH. Pershing ofthe shine: 
Methodist Episcopal Church; Rev. J. H. Sutherland, of the Second 
Presbyterian Church; and Rev. J. J. Waggoner, of the Methodist 
Protestant Church, to a large and attentive audience, which filled 
both the Main audience and Sabbath School rooms. It was a fra- 
ternal harmonious gathering of the tribes of our Christian Zion, 
wherein the best feeling pervaded their concourse, exhibiting the 
true spirit of unity in diversity, and diversity in unity, happily 
blended. 

This new House of Worship has been completed at a cost verg- 
ing on $70,000; and reflects great credit on the Pastor and Con- 
gregation. 

Sixty years ago, the first church edifice cost the modest sum of 
$151057; an amount then greatly in excess of the ability of the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 183 


Congregation. Thirty-three years ago, the second structure cost 
$3900; and still that was beyond the reach of the Church’s finances. 
While this new structure has been erected and completed for an 
amount more than forty-six times what the first erection cost, and 
eighteen times what was to be paid for the second House of Wor- 
ship. 

The contrast between the years 1805 and 1890, language can 
scarcely describe. Kittanning was only in the second year of its 
age. Its population was small, and its houses were few in num- 
ber. On the west side of the river were two organized churches; 
one at Slate Lick, the other at Middlesex. At Cowanshannock, 
Quemmahoning, Red Bank, Licking and Brady, all then within 
the bounds of Armstrong County, were Congregations which re- 
ceived supplies from Presbyterial appointments. Even at so early 
a period the people here aspired to have similar advantages. What 
a change since that time! Eighty-five years have passed away, 
and instead of one day’s preaching, there are now regular services 
on every Sabbath; instead of one place where service was con- 
ducted at a private residence, there are now four regularly organ- 
ized Churches of the same Faith; the First and Second Presby- 
terian, under the care of the Presbytery of Kittanning, the First 
United Presbyterian, under the care of the United Presbytery of 
Butler; and the Reformed, under the care of the Classis of Clarion; 
all Calvinistic in Creed, and Presbyterial in Government and Dis- 
cipline. Besides there are in addition thereto, St. Paul’s Pro- 
testant Episcopal; the First Methodist Episcopal; the German and 
English Lutherans; the Methodist Protestant; and St. Mary’s 
Roman Catholic; all of which are possessed of commodious neat, 
suitable, houses of worship; and well attended Sabbath Schools 
and Congregations. What a grand result from so small a_be- 
einning! “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit saith 
the Lord of Hosts.” 


ee LANNING: SUNDAY sSGHOOE 


Was the name adopted by the founders of the first Sabbath School 
which was organized in the old Court House in 1818 by A, Col- 
well, David Johnston, Thomas Hamilton, J. E. Brown and others 
whose names are not known to fame. A Constitution was adopted 
by which its officers consisted of a Superintendent, a Secretary, a 


184 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Treasurer and a Librarian, who were to be elected from and by 
the teachers, and hold their offices respectively for three months, 
or until their successors were chosen. A Colwell was the first 
Superintendent, and J. E. Brown was the first Secretary. From 
the year 1805, members of the Presbytery of Redstone had from 
time to time annually visited and conducted Public Worship in the 
town. 

On such occasions, the people, irrespective of denominational 
tendencies, generally attended. The children of the community 
were becoming numerous. Public education was neither free nor 
of the profoundest character. In such a society an education of a 
higher moral tendency than what was usually acquired by the 
“Hedge School’”’ Masters of the times was deemed essential for the 
moral and religious training of the rising generation. Besides 
among the more liberal minded people, education was more highly 
esteemed, and agitating the different portions of the State in behalf 
of a system which would carry intelligence to almost every man’s 
home, whether on the first or other days of the week. 

Influenced by the sentiments of the age, the organizers of the 
first Sabbath School commenced their work on a broad, generous, 
liberal principle, advocating whatever would improve the com- 
munity, elevate society, promote the welfare of the rising gener- 
ation, and otherwise maintain law and order. While preparing 
those under their instructions to be active, zealous and energetic in 
behalf of the kingdom of their Glorious Redeemer, harmony per- 
vaded their ranks. 

Their only opposition arose from a number of well meaning 
people whose modes of religious thought led them to believe that 
such a system of instruction imparted on the first day of the week 
was a violation of the Sabbath. 

As the majority of the teachers were influenced by their views 
of Christian faith as taught in the Sacred Scriptures, and expound- 
ed in the authorized standards of the Presbyterian Church, their 
instructions were, while free from Sectarian tendencies, neverthe- 
less more or less sympathetic of their faith, which however uninten- 
tionally imparted a partial shade of coloring to the views on the 
ecclesiastical and doctrinal dogmas which they entertained. 

This doubtless arose unconsciously from the consideration that 
about four years after their organization, the First Presbyterian 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 185 


Church was instituted in their midst, of which a number of them 
became members or adherents. 

About the year 1832, another school was commenced, in the 
interests of the Protestant Episcopal Church, of which R. E. 
Brown, Esq., became its Superintendent, which drew several chil- 
dren from this school as well as some of its teachers. 

Shortly afterwards, the Methodists organized another school, 
which attracted a larger number of teachers and scholars from the 
present school. 

In 1837, there were three Sabbath schools; the Presbyterian, 
the Episcopal and the Methodist. 

In 1845, another school was commenced by the Associate Re- 
formed Church, which also drew off a number of those who had 
been attending this school. 

In 1859, the school was a shadow of its former glory. It had 
only eight teachers and twenty-seven scholars. The old system, 
which had been a good and wise arrangement at an earlier period, 
had from long usage become stereotyped, and lost its influence in 
attracting the attention of the youthful mind. The custom was 
that none but the aged and experienced christians were competent 
to teach the young people. Their teaching was of a very pious 
tone, and what was not fully or literally comprehended was in the 
language of the times “‘spiritualized,’ whatever that meant. 

The Psalms and Hymns were sung in a listless, mechanical 
manner by the children, without that glow of animation which 
comes from taste and heart-felt interest; and to crown the whole 
a long examination of the lesson before the close of the hour was 
conducted by the Superintendent. For imparting instructions to 
inquiring intelligent minds, the stystem was very good; but on 
most of the children it was not calculated to make an acceptable 
impression; and therefore instead of drawing outsiders to, it rather 
drove many from the school. 

At that time J. B. Finlay was elected Superintendent. As a 
change in conducting the school was deemed necessary, and _ he, 
having been for a considerable time actively engaged in the work 
of Sabbath School instruction in Brooklyn and New York, deter- 
mined to introduce his accustomed course into the school. Accord- 
ingly, he sent for one hundred copies of the “Sunday School Bell,” 
a popular Sabbath School Hymn Book, published by the American 
Sabbath School Union; and on their arrival, he invited A. L. 


186 ~—- History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Robinson, Esq., to examine the work, and report upon its suit- 
ability for the school. Mr. Robinson was charmed with the 
hymns and tunes contained in the collection, and selected three 
hymns for the Sabbath School; one was entitled “The Sunday 
School Army” whose refrain was 


“Yes, we're glad we're in this army 
Yes, we're glad we're in this army 
And we'll battle for the school.” 


On the following Sabbath, Mr. Robinson carried a melodeon 
from his home to the Sabbath School room; and when the children 
assembled, after the usual preliminary exercises, gave out “The 
Sunday School Army,” each child having in his or her hands a 
copy of the “Bell.” At first he read to them distinctly the words 
of the hymn; then sang it, his daughter, Miss Mary, accompanying 
him on the melodeon. The effect was grand. He then ordered all 
to fall in and sing. It was sung again and again. The most in- 
expressible enthusiasm pervaded the children. An electric shock 
could have scarcely created a greater sensation than the singing of 
this new piece of music. Mr. Robinson was the soul of music. 
Whenever he began to sing he was in his true element. It beamed 
from every lineament of his countenance. It enthused his whole 
nature. He awoke a new element in the children, a thirst for 
music, a taste for song. 

The next day during recess, instead of the children at the pub- 
lic school engaging in play, they spent the time singing the 
“Sunday School Army”. It was sung on all occasions and every 
where on the streets by the children. 

On the following Sabbath morning, children never seen before 
waited for admission to the school. The room was too small for 
the accommodation of all who came. At his own expense, the 
Superintendent had the middle wall of partition removed; and the 
prayer meeting and Sabbath school rooms thrown into one cham- 
ber; the side door removed and a window inserted in its place; a 
new door opened from the vestibule into the school room; the 
whole re-seated and new lamps suspended from the cross beams to 
light up the room for evening meetings. 

On the following Sabbath morning the new room was filled 
with children. A call was made upon the young ladies and gentle- 
men for assistance which was responded to cordially. 

The Rev. Dr. Sloan, then a young Theological student, whose 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 187 


father was at that time High Sheriff of the county, gave invalu- 
able assistance. Thomas McConnell, Esq., was enthusiastic in his 
attention. Old and young seemed embued with a new spirit in 
behalf of the school. 

A systematic mode of instructions was introduced, which con- 
sisted of |.—Prayer. 2.—Praise. 3.—Reading the scripture les- 
son in concert. 4.—Study of the lesson. 5.—Exchange of books 
and distribution of papers. 6.—Singing. 7—Collection. 8— 
Announcements. 9.—Dismission. 

The first three were not to exceed seven and one-half minutes. 

No. 4 was to continue for twenty-five minutes. 

No. 5 was not to exceed five minutes. 

No. 6 was to continue for twenty minutes. 

Nos. 7, 8 and 9 were not to exceed two and one-half minutes. 

A teachers’ meeting was held on every Tuesday evening; and 
each teacher was expected to visit all the absentees in his or her 
class; to report all new scholars and absentees; and to consider 
what was required for the welfare of the school. 

During the months of May and June two well selected libraries, 
one for the Sabbath school, the other for the congregation, were 
furnished by the Superintendent. 

On the ensuing fourth of July, as the morning seemed unfavor- 
able, it was deemed best to hold the usual celebration and festival 
in the Court House, which was courteously offered for the occasion. 
Four hundred and twelve persons, old and young, formed into line 
under the “stars and stripes,’ and another beautiful banner in- 
scribed “Feed my lambs’, and influenced by the patriotic strains of 
an excellent band of music, marched from the Church to the 
Court House, where a bountiful repast was prepared by the ladies 
of the congregation, which received the kindest and most enthusi- 
astic attention of the children, as well as the best regards of all 
others of riper years. It was a most pleasant entertainment. 
Language seems too poor to do it reverence. 

Among the other young men whose labors of love marked the 
occasion were Albert Robinson, W. B. Hastings, Robert M. Kelly, 
Thomas McConnell, Jr., W. B. Meredith, George McCombs, 
Darwin E. Phelps, Joseph Painter, Wm. Pollock, J. A. Cline, James 
B. Robinson, Samue! Robinson and A. J. Elliott, who were inde- 
fatigable in their support of the school, and manifested their de- 


188 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


votion by their fervent and unwonted labors in the promotion of 
its success. 

To mention the names of the noble band of young ladies who 
devoted their time and attention to the school would be invidious, 
as at this distance of time, memory cannot recall all their names, 
their works of charity, their acts of benevolence, and their labors 
of love. 

The impetus thus given awakened a corresponding feeling in 
the church. The school was never more highly valued. It had 
accomplished a grand work by even awaking the church to a re- 
newed sense of improvement. It began a new era for her develop- 
ment. It enabled her to take a stride forward. She began to move 
and has been moving onward and forward and upward ever since. 

In the following year the bugle sound of war was heard. It 
called a large number of our active boys and young men away, 
which interfered with the spirit of Sabbath school enterprise. 


Several of our boys never returned; their names, however, are 
sweetly embalmed in remembrance. Among those who went and 
returned, two have distinguished themselves in their professional 
avocations. One is Theodore Barrett, Esq., now a distinguished 
member of the Philadelphia bar, and an active promoter of every 
eood and noble Christian cause in his adopted city. He was the 
youngest son of the Rev. Dr. Barrett of this place; and from his 
childhood had the appearance of true refinement, politeness and 
culture. In short he was born a gentleman; independent in 
thought and action he was different in his habits and tastes from 
most of the boys of his age. As a member of the Band of Hope, 
his essays manifested superior originality, and as a member of his 
class in the Sabbath School, he showed an active, intelligent in- 
quiring mind. He was among the first to offer his services to his 
country; and twice he marched to the front, always conducting 
himself fearlessly and gallantly. 


Hon. James W. Over was another of our scholars; his parents 
were members of the church. He too marched to the front at the 
call of his country. Since his return, the citizens of Allegheny, his 
adopted county, have placed him on the Bench, thus demonstrat- 
ing their confidence in the integrity and worth of the man whom 
our school once claimed as one of its intelligent boys. 

Hon. Willis J. Hulings was another of our boys. Bright, 
active, mischievous and intelligent, he has developed into a gentle- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 189 


man of influence, position and importance, and has been a member 
of the State House of Representatives and of the Senate; is a law- 
yer, and a Colonel of one of the regiments of the Commonwealth. 

Gladly would we recall the names of others, but time forbids. 

J. E. Brown was subsequently re-elected and acted as Superin- 
tendent of the Schools until his death, which occurred on the 27th 
of November, 1880, in the eighty-second year of his age. For up- 
wards of sixty-two years he was connected with the School, either 
as Secretary, Superintendent or Teacher; and for about twelve 
years before his death he served the Church as a member of Ses- 
sion. From his early years, he displayed a remarkable adaptation 
for business. He was a merchant, Prothonotary of the County 
Court, a Justice of the Peace, a land agent, a manufacturer, and a 
lawyer. He was the founder of the Pine Creek Furnace, the Kit- 
tanning Rolling Mills and a large variety of other enterprises. He 
was the head of the firms of Brown & McConnell; Brown & 
Mosgrove; Brown, Phillips & Co.; Brown, Floyd & Co.; and 
Brown and Colwell. He was President of the Kittanning Bridge 
Co.; the Kittanning Bank; the First National Bank of Kittanning; 
the Parker Bridge Co.; and the Parker Railway Company, and 
otherwise interested in numerous industries. Since the year 1804, 
he regularly remitted a pro rata of his entire income directly to 
the several Boards of the General Assembly, the Pennsylvania and 
American Bible Societies, and the American and Foreign Chris- 
tian Union, independent of his contributions to his own Church 
and home. He also founded a Life Scholarship in the Western 
Theological Seminary, whereby a young student can annually re- 
ceive his board and education, on the nomination of the Session of 
the First Presbyterian Church of this place, which is at present 
held by a son of his old friend, Rev. Dr. D. J. Irwin. 

By his last Will and Testament, fifteen per cent. of his personal 
estate was bequeathed to the above named societies. His widow, 
however, declined to accept under the Will, preferring the pro- 
vision made by law in the premises; and as her son’s name was not 
in the will, the law provided for him also; consequently neither 
the widow nor her son was obliged by law to pay any of the be- 
quests made in his will; but as his granddaughter, Mrs. Linton, 
would not consent to repudiate her grandfather’s will, and being 
unwilling to act otherwise than as her grandfather had in his will 
directed, she has had to pay all the bequests out of her portion of 


190 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


his estate, which have amounted to over $10,000, of which $1,000 
was paid—through Simon Truby, Jr.,—to the destitute widows of 
Kittanning; $500 to this Sabbath School, and the balance pro rata 
as per his will to the above Presbyterian Boards and other societies. 





When at home and well, he was regular in his attendance on 
all the services of the Sabbath and Wednesday evening meetings 
of the Church. He was never known to use either tobacco or any 
kind of intoxicating liquors in any form whatever; but on_ all 
Occasions was the faithful advocate of temperance. In the meet- 
ings of the Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly he was on 
several Occasions a member. 


After his death, one of his faithful young men, George W. 
Doverspike, who had been for years under his supervision in the 
First National Bank, succeeded him in the Superintendency of the 
Sabbath School, under whom a very marked degree of prosperity 
has perched upon its banners. In its new home, a large, hand- 
somely arranged and furnished compartment of the new church 
edifice, separated only by sliding doors from the main audience 
chamber, the school will have a better opportunity for develop- 
ment and usefulness. 


During the past few years, while a spirit of benevolence was 
hovering over the school and increasing numbers were affording 
sources of gratification, the pale messenger of another world has 
claimed four of our teachers as his own. Of whom, one was a 
young lady beloved by all who knew her for her sweet, amiable 
disposition. Nature had gifted her with a melodious voice, which 
she had cultivated to a high degree. In both the Church Choir 
and the Sabbath School she used it with charming effect. At all 
times, no matter what was the condition of the weather Miss 
Emma Rumbaugh was at her post. After a lingering illness she 
peacefully passed away on the 16th of September, 1887, to the 
mansions on high. 


Another is one whose memory will not soon be forgotten. 
Gentle, amiable, kind, benevolent and warm-hearted; a friend of 
the poor, a dispenser of alms to the needy, whose right hand knew 
not what her left hand did, when misery or distress needed relief ; 
true to her Church, and devoted to the School, the name of Mrs. 
Harriet H. Calhoun will be held in loving remembrance by all who 
knew her. Her munificent bequests to the Church form the most 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 19] 


magnificent monument that could be erected to her memory. For 
by them she, being dead, yet speaketh! 

Her niece was another of the School’s faithful band. Beloved 
by all her friends and acquaintances, she, too, has passed away. 
In sunny Italy, whose ancient temples were the sweet dreams of 
her youth, over which she spread a garment of enthusiastic admir- 
ation, and in the Capitol of the Caesars, on the 30th of June, 1889, 
her sweet spirit arose and passed on higher to the city whose 
builder and maker is God. And thus Miss Madge H. Crawford 
left for a brighter sphere, whose throne is filled by Him who over- 
threw the Caesars, and governs all worlds. 

Her brother, too. Who could have thought that the bright 
young teacher, so well trained, so highly cultured, so ruddy in ap- 
pearance, so gentleman like in manners, so courteous, sO generous, 
so popular and so kind, would follow his sister so soonr Yet A. 
C. Crawford’s spirit followed hers on the 2nd of June, 1890, less 
than a year from her departure! 

From our senior male Bible Class two seats were vacated, by 
the same unearthly visitor, whose occupants need more than nomi- 
nal mention. One was a well known resident of this place for 
many years; and although a member of another church, yet for 
nearly two years, before his last illness and death, James Stewart 
was a regular, attentive and studious member of this class. His 
thirst for biblical knowledge induced him to attend. His mind 
was influenced, no doubt, by a desire to become acquainted with 
the views of others; nevertheless, his own feelings were expressed 
by the accurate, painstaking preparation he made for the study of 
the lesson. At last, he obeyed the summons to another class of a 
higher order in the world beyond our own. 

A few years afterwards, one of our most respected citizens, 
whose intelligence, culture, easy manners and warm-hearted dis- 
position had always won the best feelings of his friends and 
acquaintances to honor, esteem and respect him; who had early 
been connected with the moral and religious movement of the 
town; who had on all occasions given his influence and support to 
every kind of progress, whether of a social, financial, commercial, 
scholastic or ecclesiastical character; and whose mind was enriched 
with the rarest stores of intellectual literature, after having been 
one of the ornaments of the class for a number of years also passed 
away; and thus Thomas McConnell was added to the class above, 


192. History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


whose teacher and classmates belong to the Temple which was 
built without hands, whose founder and builder is the King of kings 
and Lord of lords. 

In reviewing the history of the Congregation since 1806, and the 
Sabbath School, since 1818, it appears that there have been only 
three persons belonging to both, who in their last Wills and Testa- 
ments remembered the Religious Institutions of their Faith. These 
were [Thomas Hamilton, who departed in 1829; James E. Brown, 
in 1880; and Mrs. H. H. Calhoun, in 1887; whose examples will, 
we trust, be not only imitated but practically followed by even a 
greater and more enlarged liberality on the part of those who will 
soon take their places in the same procession to that domain where 
parting will be unknown. 

(Since the above was written, a number of other persons have 
remembered this Church in their wills, viz: Miss Harriet Hous- 
ton, G. C. Orr, J. A. Colwell, George W. Doverspike, I. D. Dover- 
spike, Mrs. Sarah A. Crawford, Miss Martha Orr, W. D. Patton, 
Miss Elizabeth Gates, Mrs. Rachel Corbett, Mrs. Lou McConnell, 
Miss Amanda Colwell, Miss Emily Meredith, Miss Alice Colwell, 
Miss Lydia Robinson and J. A. Gault. Miss Jane and Lindsay 
Galbraith memorialized their brother by making gifts to the 
church and to the “John D. Galbraith Bible Class”, which was 
named for him and of which he was the beloved teacher. 

Mrs. Jane Shadle made a gift to the Women’s Foreign Mis- 
slonary Society in memory of her son, Dr. Charles Shadle. 

If any benefactors’ names have been omitted, the error was not 
intentional.—Ed. ) 


OPBIGERSTANDSCOMM DER EES COTS ih ies bites) 
PRESBY DERIAN  GHUR CHEATING S90 


Ruling Elders—J. S. Quigley, P. K. Bowman, W. H. Jack, 
James Martin, George W. Doverspike, R. S. Slaymaker, A. 
Thompson, F. P. Wolf, R. W. Cowan. 

Trustees—John A. Colwell, James A. Gault, J. M. Hunter, W. 
D. Patton, George T. Crawford, C. C. Shadle, Wm. Pollock. 


COMMITTEES ON NEw CHURCH 
Selection of Lot—Samuel Crawford, B. H. Luker, A. C. Craw- 


ford, P. K. Bowman, G. W. Doverspike, J. A. Gault, W. D. Patton, 
WeeVie Hnnter, Ga Greshacdie: 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 193 


Building—John A. Colwell, G. T. Crawford, James McCul- 
lough, Jr., Mrs. Lou McConnell, Ross Reynolds, Sr., P. K. Bow- 
man, Mrs. J]. G. Cunningham, Miss Madge Crawford, Miss Alice 
Colwell. 

Finance—William Pollock, Alex. C. Crawford, C. C. Shadle, 
W. D. Patton, G. W. Doverspike. 

Treasurer—James A. Gault. 





SABBATH SCHOOL 


Superintendent—George W. Doverspike 
Secretary—George I. Crawford. 
Treasurer—Miss Lydia Robinson. 
Librarian—Richard Kennerdell. 
Assistant Librarian—Harry Hague. 


Teachers, 23. Scholars, 260. 


A RETROSPECT 
BYE eve eee EwINGe DD aL): 


“You ask now of the days that are past.” Deut. 4:32. 

“Remember the days of old, consider the years of many gen- 
erations; ask thy father and he will shew thee; thy elders and they 
will tell thee.” Deut. 32:7. 

“Who is among you that saw this house in her first glory?” 
Hlagie2 23. 

It is natural, and oft pleasant and profitable, to review the inci- 
dents of a journey, and to live over again, in thought, the scenes 
through which we have passed. The old sailor, when he can no 
longer go out upon the wide sea, finds a real pleasure in recounting 
the long voyages he has taken; the violent storms through which 
he passed; the foreign lands he visited; the safe returns to his 
native shore. He lives over again the past with great delight. 

The same is true of the old soldier. Why these soldiers’ re- 
unions all over our landr These meetings of the G..A. R.? If 
you will gather with them at one of their camp-fires, and listen to 
their songs and speeches, you will understand it. They are living 
over again the past; and all the incidents of that cruel war, in 
which they took so noble a part, have a singular interest to them 
now. These incidents have so entered into their lives as to become 
a part of their very being. It may have been of a very small 1m- 


194 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


port then, but now, as they see its bearing upon the final result; 
as they see the heritage secured thereby to the generations follow- 
ing, 1t rises before them as one of vast magnitude. 

This fact also finds its illustration 1n the retired business man. 
When he has withdrawn from the busy marts of trade and 1s sitting 
in the quiet shade of the evening twilight, his thoughts wander 
back over those years of business. He is again 1n his office, or his 
store, or his bank, or out upon his farm, mingling in the same 
scenes of business. He sees there the profit and here the loss which 
have entered into his history years ago. 

But this review, if you will so name it, has occupied the passing 
hour; has deeply interested his whole being, and he is a better man 
for the privilege of thus living over again his life. 

So it is with all classes of mankind. We are all wont, ever and 
anon, to be turning to the past; recalling familiar events of years 
gone by and living them over again. This ought to be a profitable 
exercise. Alas! sometimes we must admit that it is not; but, if 
we learn correctly the lessons of the past that are imprinted so 
indelibly in these scenes, they must fit us the better for the present 
and the future. 


There is one line of thought in a Retrospect that 1s peculiarly 
tender and sacred; it is to call before us friends and loved ones 
with whom we have walked, and talked, and lived—the many who 
started with us, accompanying us for a brief time in the journey, 
then dropping out, here and there, by the way; the many who join- 
ed us by the way and walked with us for a few days or years, and 
then turned aside to other paths; these companions who touched 
our lives for a little time, and then passed away to other scenes 
and lands, or over the river “whence no traveller returns.” 


Now, as individuals we are wont to enjoy a Retrospect; so also 
it may be pleasant and profitable for a church or congregation so 
to do. 


There is something peculiarly sacred about an old homestead. 
It may be rude, and rustic, and homely; but no matter, there 1s 
something indescribably precious about it. At times the inci- 
dents, 1f not of a life, yet of many years of the life, centre there. 
The old trees around it, whose boughs have so frequently waved 
us a welcome, and under whose shade we have passed so many de- 
lightful hours, are loved by us; the garden where we have walked 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 195 


and romped, and gathered of its fruits and flowers; the old or- 
chard! we knew the trees on which the very best apples grew; 
there we learned to climb and gather, to our heart’s content, the 
mellow fruit, and our hearts were light and free from care. Then, 
as we go within the dear old house—every room, and closet, and 
corner—every hall, and door, and window has its own secret voice. 
Who would have it otherwise? Do we not see the goodness and 
love of God in this home-love implanted in our nature. 

So it is with the old church-home; where we have, for long 
years, gone with our sacrifice of praise, and prayer, and offerings; 
where we have sat together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; 
where so often we have gone, when the words of the Psalmist ex- 
pressed the true sentiment of our souls, “I was glad when they said 
unto me, let us go up to the house of the Lord.” 

Those walls in their silence speak eloquently of sacred scenes of 
joy and gladness. The family pew, where father and mother sat, 
and to which we were led in early life and taught that that was the 
house of God; where we have sat together in worship, with so many 
loved ones who have gone into the temple above; and the old pul- 
pit; all, all have a strangely precious significance to us now. Yes, 
every part of the old home church is crowded with memories which 
come trooping into the mind laden with treasures that we hold 
most dear. 

| have always had great sympathy with the aged part of a 
congregation, when any important changes were to be made on the 
old church building; or when the old was to give place to the new 
one. Do not be surprised if those of you who are well past middle 
life never feel quite at home in your new church. 


If | understand the purpose of this service this morning, it 1s 
not for me to preach a sermon, but, in imagination, to go back and 
walk along with you as a church and congregation; to recall and 
talk over some of the more important events in your history. 


Part of this history is very familiar to me. I had the honor 
and pleasure of joining you in the making of it, but a very import- 
ant part was history when I came to you as Pastor. Very much 
that would be interesting must be omitted—partly for want of 
time, and partly because unknown or forgotten. 


When we go back to look up the origin and organization of 
this church, we find that it did not—like the fabled Minerva, in 


196 ~—- History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ripe maturity and full armor—spring forth from the cleft head of 
Jupiter, prepared to take possession of her rights and privileges; 
but that there was a long day of small things; beginnings that 
were so feeble and of such uncertain trend that no one could safely 
predict what the morrow would bring forth. 

At the beginning of this century this was, literally, missionary 
territory, in the boundary of old Redstone Presbytery. I here use 
a very uncertain phrase; for whilst its boundary was well marked 
and safely protected by the Alleghenies on the East, it knew no 
Western. 

It was something like the old maps of the United States which, 
after giving the Eastern States and then extending as far West as 
Pennsylvania—and sometimes even into Ohio—round off with the 
Great American Desert, the limits of which, at that day, were 
almost wholly unknown and the existence of which, at the present, 
is wholly unknown. So the old Redstone Presbytery reached from 
the Alleghenies to and into the Great American Desert! 


In June, 1806, Redstone sent out one of its ministers to spy out 
the land, and the first sermon by a Presbyterian minister—so far 
as history shows—was preached in Kittanning on the second Sab- 
bath of June, 1806; (eighty-four years today,) by the Rev. Joseph 
Henderson, then my father’s pastor. From that date to 1822, a 
period of sixteen years, this congregation was doomed to survive 
or perish on supphes; time, quantity and quality left very much to 
the discretion of the supply; and the fact that the church did sur- 
vive that long ordeal, is pretty good proof of the doctrine of the 
‘Perseverance of the Saints,’ and that there were, at least, some 
saints here to persevere. | 


It was certainly a day of small things; but who will measure 
the anxiety and toil; the labor and prayers of those who were then 
laying foundations upon which others have builded! We may 
say of them, as of the ancient worthies of whom Paul wrote, “These 
all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having 
seen them afar off and were persuaded of them.” 

The church was organized on Saturday, August 31st, 1822, by 
the Rev. John Andrews and Mr. Thomas Davis (I always did ad- 
mire that name). The many T. D.’s throughout Western Penn- 
sylvania seem to prove that he was a man very much beloved, 
especially by the mothers in Israel. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 197 


The membership was twenty-two, and the church building was 
the old court house on the corner of Market and Jefferson streets. 
Of these twenty-two, one—Mrs. Susannah Barnett—remained 
in the church militant until April 30, 1879, being in her 
ninety-eighth year, when she passed to the church triumphant. 
The first call made, was for Mr. Thomas Davis, then a licentiate 
of Redstone, October, 1822, for the half of his time; salary, $200. 
This call was not accepted and again the church was dependent 
upon occasional supplies until 1825. Then a request for a stated 
supply, for two years, was made to the Presbytery for Rev. 
Nathaniel Snowden, for one-third of his time; but this arrange- 
ment lasted only a little over one year. Again was this church 
constrained to feed upon occasional supplies until 1830. June, 
1830, a call was given to Mr. James Campbell—a licentiate of the 
Presbytery of New Brunswick, N. J. This call for three-fourths 
of his time; salary, $300. Mr. Campbell accepted, but remained 
only a little more than one year—resigned October, 1831. 

It is remarkable that in the report of April, 1831, the member- 
ship was only twenty-four—an increase of but two members in 
nine years. 

Mr. Campbell 1s spoken of as a man of a high type of piety; 
earnest and faithful in christian work. The occasion of his resig- 
nation does not appear in this history. 

Mrs. Campbell has the honor of organizing the first ladies’ 
prayer meeting ever in existence in Kittanning. For that act her 
memory should be held dear. 

Again, and for the last time in your history, this church be- 
came dependent upon occasional supplies until 1834; and then 
thirty-two members are reported, an increase of eight in three 
years. 

The third call was made in April, 1834, for Rev. Joseph 
Painter, for two-thirds of his time; salary, $333.33. 

At a communion season in June, 1834, held by Dr. Painter, but 
before he was installed pastor, twenty-two members were received 
into the church. 

But let us not underestimate these years of preparation, these 
twenty-eight years of foundation work. How intensely interest- 
ing it would be to have some one of those fathers or mothers in 
Israel come before us today and tell of the perils met and passed 


198 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


through in those twenty-eight years of occasional and stated sup-~ 
plies! Were David Johnston, or Thomas Hamilton, or John 
Patrick—who constituted the first session—to return today and 
enter into that magnificent temple which you have built for the 
worship of God, his confusion might be even greater than that of 
Rip Van Winkle, when he awoke from his hundred years of slum- 
ber. 


Then, the light for an evening service came from a tallow dip 
oft held in place by a serving deacon or elder; now, from a bril- 
liant, blazing chandelier charged with electricity or with double- 
refined gas. Then, the pulpit was a “‘dry-goods box on end”; now, 
not even marble will satisfy, it must be carved wood—antique oak 
—wrought somewhat after the style of Solomon’s temple. Then, 
the seats were benches with the most ancient, unimproved backs, if 
any; now, the most modern, improved pews with cushions soft as 
eider-down. Then, carpets were not to be thought of for aisles, 
pews or pulpits; now, the finest quality of Brussels covers the 
whole floor. Then, the heat—if heat you could call it—was fur- 
nished by a very common stove, replenished and poked with the 
singing of every hymn, and regulated by the sexton’s or deacon’s 
will; now, it must come, gently as the zephyr, from heaters of the 
latest patent and regulated by a thermometer that is warranted 
correct. Then, the music was led by a precentor, whose voice did 
not always call before the congregation visions of the angelic 
choir; now, it 1s the most costly organ and the trained choir, and 
the music is not unfrequently the chief attraction. 


But there are some things that have not changed; there are 
some things that have remained the same through all the changes 
of these long years. The means of grace which God has given to 
His church remain the same, the prayers and the praises, the con- 
fessions and thanksgiving, are the same; we hear from the Blessed 
Word the same solemn warnings and precious invitations; and the 
power of this truth the same now as then; it 1s the same story of 
Jesus and His love. 

These grand old hymns, “Rock of Ages,” “Jesus, lover of my 
soul,” “Come thou fount of every blessing,” “All hail the power 
of Jesus’ name,” the same then as now. 

Other voices sang and spake his praises; other eyes wept; other 
hearts burned within as they meditated on these themes; but the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 199 


themes were the same. Yes, the means of grace—like the blessed 
Savior himself—remain the same, yesterday, today and forever. 

+ The arrival of Dr. Painter, in April, 1834—although his in- 
stallation did not take place until November of that year—dates 
an era in this church. It marks also the beginning of its sub- 
stantial growth. Before this date, if living, or growth, could be 
predicted, it was certainly at a dying rate. But now, new life 
seems to pervade all departments of church work, under the lead- 
ership of Dr. Painter; the work went steadily forward and to him 
we accord the honor of being the first pastor. 


At this point, we enter upon a pastorate of thirty years, opening 
with a little band of about 30, and closing with a strong, influen- 
tial and comparatively wealthy church, not second to any one in 
the Presbytery. 


This was not accomplished by any special seasons of revival; 
the history of those thirty years is a history of steady growth 
under the plain, practical exposition of the word of God. It was 
a season of seed sowing. Those who have followed Dr. Painter in 
his ministry are greatly indebted to him for the quality of the seed 
sown; very much of the reaping 1s from the planting of those 
thirty’ years: It was line upon line, precept upon precept, but 
always the doctrines of this Word, presented clearly, truthfully 
and earnestly; and if the growth was slow, it was substantial. 


In 1860, there was a revival season in this church. Dr. Painter 
was assisted by Rev. Geo. P. Hays—now Dr. Hays, pastor of the 
2nd church of Kansas City—and thirty-five members were recelv- 
ed. A call was given to Rev. Mr. Hays to become co-pastor with 
Dr. Painter, but receiving a call from the 2nd church, Baltimore, 
at the same time, the Kittanning call was declined. 


During the pastorate the interests of the church at large had 
been presented regularly; the reports show that $2,354.50 had been 
contributed to the Boards of the Church. This was an average of 
$78.48 annually. The congregational expenses are not reported 
and therefore we cannot give any statistics on that subject, other 
than the salary of the pastor, which was $333.33 1/3 until 
the change was made to the whole of Dr. Painter’s time; salary, 
$500; which was continued the same until his death. 


The second pastorate was that of the speaker—T. D. Ewing— 
commencing April, 1864, and ending September, 1880—16"% years. 


200. History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The membership on April, 1864, was 146, of whom 39 are in this 
church today; in September, 1880, it was 316. The contributions 
to the Boards of the church during this period were $21,858, whilst 
the congregational amounted to $40,161; a total of $61,019. This 
is a yearly average of $3,876—or $1,366 to the church Boards 
and $2,510 to congregational. 

In the Retrospect of this period, | must be content to speak 
only of a few of the prominent scenes and events which entered 
into it, and made it to me the most important and interesting 
portion of my life. My first sermon in this pulpit was preached 
January 17, 1864. I supplied the pulpit four more Sabbaths be- 
tween this time and the second Sabbath of April, when, after re- 
ceiving a call, I came to settle as pastor. | arrived, fresh from 
the seminary, in the second week of April, with just ammunition 
enough in my satchel for the following Sabbath, and I have never 
doubted that my coming was in answer to the Master’s call. To 
me it has been a striking illustration of God’s sometimes choosing 
the foolish things and the weak things, and the things that are 
not as instruments in His hands for work; for, as | review the ser- 
mons then preached I find some of the rarest specimens, and | can 
only account for their acceptance on the supposition that a people 
fed upon strong meat for a long time are quite ready to receive 
milk with a good degree of relish, even if it is of rather poor 
quality. | 

However this may be, God seemed to smile upon us from the 
beginning, and in April, 1864, we entered upon what proved to be 
a prosperous and happy pastorate. 

There was encouraging growth from the first. [ do not think 
that there were more than two communion seasons during those 
1014 years that there were not some added to this church. Three 
general revivals marked the history of this period. These were 
seasons of great joy and gladness to us all, especially the first one, 
when about fifty stood around this altar to publicly profess their 
faith in Christ. This will be brought most distinctly to our minds 
today by a quotation from a sermon preached at the close of that 
revival, on the text, “The Lord hath done great things for us 
whereof we are glad.” Psalm 126:3., viz: 


“About the first of November two conventions on christian 
work were held, one at Slate Lick and one at Crooked Creek: at 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 201 


both of which were present some of the members of this congrega- 
tion. These conventions were precious seasons where the Spirit 
was manifestly present, and when the experience of the christian 
heart was that it was good to be there.” 

From this date I confidently believed that there was an_ in- 
creased interest in our church. 

About the first of December, a union prayer meeting was form- 
ed—a union of the ladies’ and young men’s prayer meetings—to 
meet in the lecture room on Sabbath evenings, an hour before 
public service. 





This meeting was from the first favored with special tokens of 
the Divine presence. Shortly after this time, the ladies’ prayer 
meeting was removed from the house of the pastor to the church; 
the attendance increasing until the former place was too strait for 
them. 


It was now no longer a question with your pastor as to the 
special presence of the Spirit. Very many of God’s people were 
being greatly revived; they were praying and working as never 
before, and, whilst as yet it was almost literally confined to the 
professed followers of Christ, all looked forward with a good de- 
gree of confidence to a large ingathering from-the world, into the 
fold of Christ. 


How shall any pen fully describe the preciousness of the ser- 
vices during the “week of prayer,’ and the weeks that followed 
until the communion season, the first Sabbath of Februaryr 
Weeks that must be ever memorable to all those who had the pleas- 
ure of participating in those services. When God came down as 
of old and His glory filled His temple; when this house was to 
our souls the house of God, truly, and the very gate of heaven; 
when all felt that we were standing on holy ground; that mant- 
festly God was here. When, notwithstanding the inclemency of 
the weather, our meetings were crowded with anxious, loving 
hearts; when, as of old, Jesus came to His disciples, the doors being 
shut, and spake peace to so many souls; when He said to this one, 
and that one, “follow Me,” and “they rose up, left all and followed 
Him; when He called so many blind sinners, sitting by the way- 
side, begging, to Himself and opened their eyes to behold the 
truth; and they gladly joined themselves to His followers and 
united in songs of praise to Him as the author of their salvation! 


202 Historv of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


When floods of heavenly light and hfe seemed to roll in upon 
us, and to fill every soul that loved the Saviour with joy and glad- 
ness. With thankful hearts we remember the brethren who came 
to assist us In the work; for their messages and prayers we should 
humbly and devoutly thank God today; and in our review record 
the names of Fields, and Francis, and Magill, and Boyd, and 
Thompson, and Sloan, as ministers of Christ.to our good. 

Shall time or eternity ever blot from our memories the sacred- 

ness of our after-meetings for prayer, and praise, and consecra- 
tionr When in very truth we were brought into His banqueting 
house and His banner of love was over us; where we seemed to be 
permitted to lean upon Jesus bosom and pour forth our whole 
souls to Him, feeling that He was ready to answer. 
._,. These were seasons when Jesus seemed to say to us, “Come 
aside and rest awhile with me.”’ Some of these were transfigura- 
tion scenes to our wearied souls; when we had sweet foretastes of 
the light, and life, and’ love from heaven; and in that light we 
seemed to see Jesus only. May the memory of these scenes ever 
linger with us and keep us near to Jesus! 


The first Sabbath of February was our communion Sabbath. 
Then on this mountain, “did the Lord of Hosts make unto all His 
people a feast of fat things; a feast of wines on the lees; of fat 
things full of marrow; of wines on the,lees well refined.” [hat 
was a day which had had none to equal it in this church’s history. 
Then were our hearts glad; then were we like those that dreamed. 
The news too good to be true; then could we declare, with hearts 
overflowing with gratitude, “The Lord hath done great things for 
us whereof we are glad.” 


This church had then a membership of 318; an increase of 56 
during that year. 


There are two organizations which call for special notice in 
this retrospect—the Women’s Foreign Missionary Society and the 
Young Men’s Prayer Meeting. 


The Women’s Foreign Missionary Society was organized 
November 28, 1873. I well remember the day we organized; | 
say we, because | was a kind of advisory or honorary member for 
the first year; meeting with the society and conducting its devo- 
tional exercises. Some of you will doubtless remember, that at the 
end of the first year you gently hinted, by a unanimous vote, that 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 203 


you could conduct that part of the exercises yourselves and so | 
retired in good order. You entered upon the work of that society 
with great fear and trembling, but it soon became manifest that 
God had a great work for you to do, in this church, as well as in 
the foreign field. It was decided to support a missionary, and 
from that date God’s richest blessing seemed to rest upon the 
society; the salary $450 was regularly’ paid, and you have con- 
tinued so to do until the present. I have frequently felt that this 
society accomplished as:much, if not more, than any other instru- 
mentality in this church; it gave a new impetus to all the other 
departments of church work. It established and sustained a 
Ladies’ Prayer Meeting. It was in this prayer meeting, held in 
the house of the pastor, where were the first evidences of that glori- 
ous revival of 1876. Always fortunate in its Board of Managers, 
who carried forward its work wisely and with the greatest possible 
efficiency, this church can never know how much it owes to this 
society for its present prosperous condition. 

The Young Men’s Prayer Meeting takes its date from Friday 
evening, November 7, 1873, when I personally invited some young 
men to come to my, study to confer concerning this subject; at the 
time appointed four,,were present: James Martin, R. S. Slay- 
maker, G. W. Doverspike and Prof; Kratz. | stated the purpose 
for which I had, invited them and my great desire to have such a 
prayer meeting established and sustained; the great good which 
would result to the young men and to the church from such an or- 
ganization, and urged them to express themselves fully on the sub- 
ject. Each one expressed himself about as follows: , “A Young 
Men’s Prayer Meeting is a good thing and | would enjoy attend- 
ing such a meeting if we could only have a successful one, but we 
have tried so often and failed that | am discouraged and do not 
know that there is any use of trying again.”’ I then said to them, 
“There are four of you and I am sure you can find two others that 
may join you; and if you will pledge yourselves to stand by such 
a prayer meeting you can, with God’s blessing, make it a success.” 

Each one then pledged himself to be faithful and we appointed 
the next Monday evening, November 10th, for the first meeting. 
My recollection is that Joseph Painter, Dr. Beatty, Dr. McCulloch, 
C. C. Shadle and J. S. Bowser joined them at this meeting, and 
from that day the meeting grew in interest and numbers. In a 


204. ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


short time the study became too small for them and they changed 
the place of meeting to the church. 

That Young Men’s Prayer Meeting at once became one of the 
important agencies of this church; its meetings were as regular as 
the church services and have continued to the present. It was a 
power for good to very many young men. To me it was one of 
the most encouraging features of the work in this church. 


There is one event in the history of my pastorate here that 
has never been a subject of congratulation to me; that is, the 
attempt we made, in the fall of 1876, to build a new church. We 
failed because we could not secure the money needed. Many of 
us felt that we sadly needed a new church building and tried hard 
to secure it; many of you did nobly in coming forward with your 
subscriptions, but the time did not seem ripe for the work. We 
were disappointed and somewhat discouraged, but we can see now 
that possibly we were in undue haste; you were to sojourn in the 
old church fourteen years more, when God provided you with a 
Moses possessing the tact and wisdom to lead you in this great 
and good work of building the new church. 


As somewhat of a compensation for our disappointment in not 
securing a new church, we built that “lean-to” at the end of this 
old church, which, 1f not ornamental, has been very useful for class 
rooms, session and society meetings. Many of us never did like its 
appearance on the outside, but the architect never was known to 
the public. I wish today to congratulate the architect, the build- 
ers, and the few who kindly furnished the funds to erect it, for it 
served its purpose well. 

But there are other scenes which properly belong to this “retro- 
spect’ that | have passed almost unnoticed. They are those 
affliction scenes so common in this “vale of tears’. God came to 
us in the storm, and the fire, and the whirlwind, as well as in the 
“still small voice’. We oft sat together in the hour of trial and 
the day of sorrow. These came ever and anon upon us with 
crushing severity. We could not understand those dark scenes 
then; we cannot fully understand them now; but we will here- 
after. They will all be made plain to us when we come up into 
the immediate presence of the Master. 


These scenes will be interpreted correctly in the light and love 
of heaven; and all for our own good and His glory. Till then we 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 205 


walk by faith; till then, we place our hand in His and wait His 
will singing, 
“Not mine, not mine the choice, 
In things or great or small, 
Be Thou my Guide, my Strength, 
My Wisdom and my All.” 


We have come.here today to officially say farewell to this 
house which has so long been your church home. Here many 
can date their spiritual birth; here very many have grown to a ripe 
maturity in the christian life. At this altar many of you have 
been baptized into the name of the Father and the Son and the 
Holy Ghost. Here, again and again, you have fed upon the sym- 
bols of the broken body and shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
Here you have offered your praises and prayers and thanksgiving 
and recorded your vows; here you have sat in heavenly places in 
Christ Jesus; within these walls the Saviour has come again and 
again, the doors being shut, and revealed Himself to you. Here 
the old story of Jesus and His love has been told over and over 
again, ever old yet ever new; here was the mercy seat, the meet- 
ing place with God where He oft communed with you! Oh, the 
sacred memories that center within these walls! We are living, 
this hour, in the years long since gone; we are in imagination 
mingling with those whose bodies have returned to dust; we seem 
to hear a voice from this sacred desk, that long ago ceased to warn 
or entreat on earth; and has gone in to shout the praises of the 
King; we are again today, in thought, with very many who years 
agone walked these aisles and sat 1n these pews, but are now walk- 
ing the streets of the Holy City, and anon are sitting in the shade 
and partaking of the tree of life that is in the midst of the Paradise 
of God. 

Oh, the many who once mingled with us here in our work and 
worship, who have now gone to the mansion and are rejoicing in 
the presence of the King in His glory! We seem surrounded 
with a great cloud of witnesses whose robes are white and upon 
whose heads there are crowns of life. Oh, this old church home; 
it is so closely and intimately associated with the Home above! 
This temple and yonder temple in glory seem bound in one! This 
has long been a court into which the Master has been gathering 
His followers, only to tarry for a little while, and then He bade 


200 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


them come up higher into the temple above. Here we seem today 
to stand on the border land looking over to the Canaan of rest. 

Then who shall chide us 1f, with hearts full of emotion, we say 
farewell to this old church home today’ Farewell, ye walls, which 
have so long resounded with the voice of prayer and praise and 
thanksgiving, and echoed and re-echoed the messages of a Saviour’s 
love! Farewell, ye seats, where we have so often sat and com- 
muned sweetly with the Master and so many loved ones who have 
gone to glory! Farewell, ye sacred desk, from which have gone 
forth so many sweet invitations and solemn warnings; from which 
heavenly messages have come to awaken and direct and encourage 
in the mission of life! 

Farewell to the old church home, with all its deeply interesting 
histories; its tender associations and hallowed memories! “If | 
forget thee let my right hand forget her cunning.” And once 
again I say, farewell. 


EVENING SERVICE 


SEVEN O'CLOCK 


YOUNG MEN’S PRAYER MEETING 


Address. by, HC: Westervelt sol sy 9M "Gis olamiitsoureie a 


E1GcHT O’cLock 


SERMON BystitiEerpAShOR 


SUBJECT, “A PROSPECT” 


Ezekiel 40 :44.—Their pospect was toward the South. 


If ever a people had the smile of God’s providence from the be- 
ginning to the end of a new church enterprise, we certainly are to 
be numbered with them. The sunlight of His face has been upon 
us constantly. 

When we began to build everything was marked by desire; 
prospect had scarcely become a factor in it. As the work progress- 
ed and as it stands now in its completed and beautiful form, we 





* This sermon was preached from brief notes. A long illness prevented the pastor of the 
church from writing it out and putting it in the exact form in which is was delivered. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 207 


confess we are amazed—we did not dare to hope for such an end- 
ing. 

Some of you will recall a prayer meeting talk in which | de- 
scribed what I should like to have—a stately building, beautified 
within and without by art; a splendid church home, where we 
could feel our best gifts and most loving thoughts had been cher- 
ished. I told you | had no hope of realizing my desires. There 
was then no foundation for the prospect, but | never doubted for 
one moment that the presence of the Lord was in it; I felt power- 
fully, overwhelmingly, that He was guiding us in the work. I saw 
then, as plainly as any one, the Lord’s great goodness; | felt that 
there was an abounding fulness in the God-head, to bless all the 
sons and daughters of earth; but I did not think of it in relation 
to ourselves. I believed it, but like the Lord’s blessings as many 
believe in them, we think of them as in store for others and not 
ourselves. 


Paul thanked God and took courage, when his brethren came 
to Appu forum and the three taverns to greet and cheer him on his 
way to Rome. This thankful spirit was called out by the kind- 
ness he had received at their hands. My dear friends, what kindly 
treatment have we received at the hands of the Lord in this work 
we have doner What prosperity? . What peace we have enjoyed? 
We never dreamed of it; in our most extravagant desires we never 
thought of it; we never had faith to pray for such things. Have 
we not ground for a-goodly prospect and reasons for believing that 
there shall be a full realization of our hopes? Moses had _ no 
thought of the wonderful vision that should meet his eyes from 
off the mountains; but the Lord enlarged his natural sight and he 
saw the whole land stretching out before him. May we not feel 
that our blessed Master has led us up a mountain height and now 
as we stand here, we have a goodly prospect in view. A fair and 
beauteous land is before us. Shall we enter in and possess it? 
The children of Israel entered the land of Canaan with splendid 
prospects and glorious hopes, but they were to possess and enjoy 
it upon certain conditions which the Lord laid upon them. So it 
is with us. Let us look very briefly into the conditions which 
accompany this prospect. 

First. It must be a prospect which finds its warrant in the 
Scriptures. We may imagine great success following this work of 


208 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


building; we may long to see this beautiful structure filled with 
worshipers, a devout people gathering from Sabbath to Sabbath 
to pay their vows unto the Lord. But before we have the slightest 
reason for hoping or desiring such things we must look at the 
ground upon which such blessings are offered. 


If we are ready to do God’s will, He has a prosperity in store 
for us beyond anything we have ever prayed or even hoped for. 
There are agencies and forces at work in the world that we must 
learn to love and use. They are God-given. There is an armor 
not furnished by men that we must take into this warfare for the 
Lord. Whoever desires to work for the building up of Christ’s 
kingdom, He has heavenly influences provided for you. Now if 
we are prepared to accept service under some such conditions, we 
have every reason to believe that a splendid success awaits us and 
that a church never had better prospects of usefulness. 


The second element which enters into this prospect, 1s the 
place we are going to give the Lord. Jesus Christ. Are we 
ready to bow down to him as the Son of God, divinely commission- 
ed to save this world? Are you ready to listen to preaching which 
sets forth a crucified Saviour and that there is none other name 
elven among men whereby they must be saved? If men are to be 
reformed and regenerated, it can only be done through the Lord 
Jesus. If men are to be led into the truth, they must be led to 
Him, who proclaimed Himself “the Truth’. The truth makes 
men free, strikes the fetters of sin off from every one bound in the 
worst of slavery. 

If we grow tired of the truth as this old gospel presents it, we 
may enter upon this period with fear and trembling. Added 
blessings bring greater responsibilities. Ours were never greater 
than at this moment. What we have worked for so earnestly and 
so long must be used. Here is one of our prospects, God’s blessing 
in all its fulness and power resting upon this people through the 
preaching of the truth. 


The third element in this prospect 1s a people thoroughly pos- 
sessed and imbued with the Spirit of Christ. Those who labor 
for him successfully must carry the same spirit into all they do. 
If we have this, we can do anything and go anywhere. The Rev. 
Dr. Storrs, of Brooklyn, New York, in one of his splendid mission- 
ary addresses, said, “The spirit of the age is no longer doctrinal 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 209 


but practical. Where churches were once almost bitter over the 
question, what shall we believer they are now as eager and anxious 
over, what shall we dor”’ 


The church that sets out with the spirit and desire to do the 
most and go the farthest for the Lord Jesus Christ is the one for 
this age. It matters not as to its form and polity; it matters not 
about the name it bears nor the creed it confesses; so that it is full 
of His Spirit. This is the church that will receive heaven’s fos- 
tering care and richest benediction; this is the church the Lord will 
watch over and crown with everlasting honor. I want to join 
this church. I am willing right now to leave the Presbyterian 
faith and fold if | can be led to a church possessing more of the 
Spirit of Christ, and more of His power. Here we will find our 
highest happiness and our place of greatest usefulness. 


The fourth element in this prospect 1s a far-reaching one; it 1s 
founded upon one of those gospel principles which had their birth 
in the advent and mission of Christ. Until He exalted the poor, 
who thought of them? Who were anxious to help them in their 
bitter struggle with poverty and all the miseries that follow in its 
trainer His voice was the first one raised in their behalf. Was 
that not a far-reaching principle which He embodied 1n His words 
to John in prison, “Go and tell him the gospel has come at last to 
the poor.” In this truth we must see something of our prospect. 
This must distinctly color our vision. We cannot enjoy and will 
not have heaven’s blessing, unless we provide for and welcome the 
poor. Fine buildings in these days are apt to unchurch them, or 
to give them ready excuses for not mingling with the Lord’s people 
in a proper observance of the Sabbath. We must not even seem 
to know the worldly condition of men. We must not look upon 
their possessions or their clothes and measure our esteem and love 
and care by what they have. If we do, we will come short of 
realizing our hopes and one of the brightest prospects any church 
ever had will surely be blighted. Our energy and patience and 
toil shown in the erection of this building will be of no avail if we 
deny those a place in our church for whom Christ died. 


The fifth element in this prospect. Religion is an interchange- 
able term for sympathy and love; there must be, therefore, in our 
prospect a religion that will be swift to enter into the sympathies 
and sorrows and trials of our fellow creatures. How many are in 


210 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


trouble and affliction. Sometimes they want for the necessities of 
life. We must be willing then not only to give help and solace to 
the sick and dying, and comfort to the bereaved, but we must 
clothe those who are naked and feed those who are hungry. In 
doing this, we will commend our religion and church to those who 
stand without, but better still we will obey the commands of the 
Lord Jesus. 

Let there be then a broad stream of humanity running through 
our church life; the head of the church has made a channel for it 
and given Himself as the example of what we are to do. Never fear 
as to the doctrines; we have the oracles of God, let us follow them, 
revere them, exalt them, but let us not forget we have God’s image 
and likeness all around us in fallen men and women. To save 
them we must get into sympathy with them. If it breaks our 
hearts, and violates every law of self-government, we must learn 
to love them. When we have done this, then we may be assured 
of the presence of Christ in the Church and will see some manifes- 
tations of His life. If we fail to do it, it will be because we have 
neglected His commands. 

| have outlined very briefly here my idea of a model church. 
Col. Higginson, a devoted adherent of the Unitarian Church, has 
recently described what he thought was a model. He thinks, 
“Calvanism justly has been displaced; instead of the grim, mo- 
rose life it inculcates, human happiness has been substituted. 
That men are attached to churches today as much because we have 
seen fit to add to them parlors and kitchens and a social life as 
they once were to theology.” 

This view certainly does not accord with the facts as gathered 
from those about us, or from the world. Men are as much inter- 
ested today in what they believe as ever. They know when they 
are resting in a faith that satisfies them; when their hearts are 
touched; when they are lifted up above what this world offers; 
when their better and higher natures are strengthened; this 1s done 
only in the faith we have inherited and which, let us hope, will be 
cherished to the end. Nothing but a religion that helps men and 
convinces them of its helping power will build churches and_ set 
apart in most solemn manner these places for the worship of 
Almighty God. If I were made the judge or called upon to de- 
cide the character of a model church I would rather take the one 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 211 


described in a popular hymn, than that of Col Higginson. Here 
is a religion which a man felt; a Saviour upon whom he could lean 
and one that satisfied the deepest longing of the soul. 


Well, wife, ’ve found the model church! I worshipped there today, 
It made me think of good old times, before my hairs were grav. 
The meeting house was finer built than they were years ago, 

But then I found, when I went in, it wasn’t built for show. 


The sexton didn’t seat me ’way back by the door, 

He knew that I was old and deaf, as well as old and poor, 

He must have been a christian, for he led me boldy through 
The long atsle of that crowded church to find a pleasant pew. 


I wish you'd heard the singing—it had the old time ring, 
The preacher said with trumpet votce, “Let all the people sing” ; 
The tune was “Coronation”, and the music upward rolled, 
Till I thought I heard the angels striking all their harps of gold. 


My deafness seemed to melt away, my spirit caught the fire, 
I joined my feeble trembling voice with that melodious choir. 
And sang as in my youthful days, ‘Let angels prostrate fall” ; 
“Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown Him Lord of all.” 


I tell you, wife, it did me good to sing that hymn once more; 
I felt like some wrecked mariner who gets a glimpse of shore; 
I almost want to lay aside this weather-beaten form, 

And anchor in the Blessed port forever from the storm. 


The preacher! well, I can’t just tell all that the preacher said; 
I know it wasn’t written; | know it wasn't read; 

He hadn't time to read it, for the lightnin’ of his eve 

Went passing ‘long from pew to pew, nor passed a sinner by. 


The sermon wasn't flowery, twas simple gospel truth; 
It fitted poor old men like me; it fitted hopeful youth; 
"Twas full of consolation for weary hearts that bleed; 
‘Twas full of invitation to Christ, and not to creed. 


The preacher made sin hideous in Gentile and in Jews; 
He shot the golden sentences down on the finest pews; 
And, though I can't see very well, I saw the falling tear 
That told me hell was some way off, and heaven very near. 


(hy We History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


How swift the golden moments fled within that holy place! 

How brightly beamed the light of heaven from every happy face! 

Again I longed for that sweet time when friend shall meet with 
friends, 


“Where congregations ne'er break up and Sabbaths have no end.” 


I hope to meet that minister—the congregation too— 

In the dear home beyond the skies, that shines from heaven's blue. 
I doubt not I'll remember, beyond life’s evening grav, 

The face of God's dear servant who preached his word today. 


Dear wife, the fight will soon be fought, the victory won, 
The shinin’ goal 1s just abead, the race is nearly run. 

O’er the river we are nearin’ they are thronging to the shore, 
To shout our safe arrival where the weary weep no more. 


Our prospect then must have its foundations not only in the 
truth as set forth in the word of God, but also in the life exempli- 
fied by our Savior. Do not let us make a church for the rich nor 
for the poor; for the young or the old; for the high or the low, but 
for all men; for Christ died for all men and the ideal church will 
only be found where this 1s honestly believed and practised. 

What brighter life or more splendid vision can we have before 
us, than one inspired by the gospel of the Son of God. It points 
men higher and where no other influence can ever reach them. 
The Earl of Shaftsbury once said, “I want the working people of 
England who have been benefitted and blessed by the ten hour 
bill, to turn to the Lord Jesus Christ, for it 1s through His gospel, 
this relief has come to them.” 

This must be a part of our prospect. Men out of Christ, bless- 
ed and saved; humanity lifted up and ennobled and finally lifted 
up into the dwelling place of eternal light and peace. Our thoughts 
and efforts must rise to this higher prospect. Here we are earthly 
and temporal, but we must look up and beyond to our eternal 
prospect. What is this? To an inheritance incorruptible and un- 
defiled and that fadeth not away; to an ineffable and unapproach- 
able glory; to something that Paul saw in the highest heavens; to 
something that John saw in his glorious vision in Patmos. .O 
glorious prospect! 

In the attainment of such purposes and such a life, are we not 
called upon to bring our best efforts into user We have not been 
asked to give too much in the erection of this church building; the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 213 


object we have in view, the prospect of saving souls, the honor of 
being co-workers with Christ, demanded all this and more if neces- 
sary. [That we have the privilege of engaging in such labor is 
most remarkable. If we fail to enter heartily and seriously into 
this work; if we fail to bring consecrated lives and energies to the 
Master’s service—it will be still more remarkable. 

This 1s our training ground for heaven. Some day there will 
be a long journey from our earthly home to the one on high; it 
will take all of the strength and power that comes to each one of 
us under these genial influences to accomplish that pilgrimage. 
Who can tell what that flight of the soul will demand, what 
energies and powers and faculties will be needed? The athlete 
trains for his day of trial. He sees before him a vast multitude 
who have come to witness the contest and perchance rejoice in his 
victory. So with us. Doubtless in heaven there are many 
deeply interested in all of our work and labor. Under the arch- 
way of this vast temple where are assembled God's host, let us be 
faithful in our training. This will in a measure be our prepara- 
tion for joining them. Here we must go on with our trial and 
training, but some day the flight will begin—on and on through 
space—up and up into the light—onward and onward towards the 
temple—nearer and nearer the great white throne, till at last in the 
overwhelming glory of the Father’s presence, we shall rest. Go on 
then with your training, making these walls and walks the scenes 
of your labors and conflicts. Have we not a glorious prospect? 





Monpay, JUNE NINTH, EIGHT O’cLock P. M. 
PAS LOR SeALDsSOCI Elny, 


Address by Rev. Dr. Ewing and the Pastor. 


WEDNESDAY, JUNE ELEVENTH, EIGHT O’cLock P. M. 


CONGREGATION PRAYER MEETING 


214 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


MISSIONARY MEETING 
THurRSDAY, JUNE 12, 8 P. M. 


FUSTORIGATSS RE LCH COP VCE Ba ONAN Se GO hr los 
MISSIONARY SOCIETY 


By Miss JULIETTE ROBINSON 


“Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every crea- 
cUTem 


This was our Lord’s command to his disciples, given immedi- 
ately before his ascension and upon this foundation the entire 
work of foreign missions rests. In fulfilling this command the 
apostles and early christians displayed great zeal in preaching the 
gospel to the heathen and the seed sown brought forth a bountiful 
harvest. Through all the years of persecution and the darkness 
of superstition the fires of a missionary spirit never entirely died 
out of the heart of the church, but in these “last days” the smould- 
ering embers have been fanned into a bright blaze, whose light 1s 
reflected into the darkest corners of the earth. 

That woman had an important part in the evangelical work of 
the early christian church is beyond a reasonable doubt. The last 
chapter of the epistle to the Romans is sufficient warrant for this 
belief. It abounds in mention of “those women” who “labored 
much in the Lord,” and certainly Phebe was sent on a foreign 
mission when the carrying of this letter to the church at Rome 
was entrusted to her. 

That woman should have an equally important place in the 
church today 1s a truth which we have learned surely, though re- 
luctantly. No earnest christian woman need now have vague 
longings for something to do. “The demand for work and the 
Opportunity to prosecute 1t are now upon us” and “there is not a 
talent possessed by one of the great host of christian women which 
may not just now be used in the Master’s service.’’ As we sit here 
tonight it is under conditions of great privilege and greater respon- 
sibility. Whether we find our work in carrying the gospel to the 
perishing millions who have never heard it, or in upholding the 
hands and encouraging the hearts of those who bear this message 
in our stead, there must be no holding back of ourselves or any- 
thing that 1s ours. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning = 215 


The first Woman’s Missionary Society in America was organ- 
ized in Boston in 1800, and was a union of Baptists and Congre- 
gationalists. After this, they became common in many parts of 
the country. But these organizations were only tributary to the 
general societies and simply collected money for their use. A few 
years after the Sepoy rebellion, Sir John Laurence, the viceroy of 
India, in a speech before the assembled princes -and chiefs of 
Lahore, urged the education of the daughters of India. He 
“struck the keynote of enslaved women’s emancipation throughout 
the world,” and it touched a responsive chord in the hearts of 
christian women. Ignorance was the boasted possession of the 
Indian women and their secluded lives in zenanas which no man 
might enter, made it certain that the work of educating them must 
be done by their own sex. But how was this to be accomplished? 
The answer came in the creation of women’s foreign missionary 
societies in their present organized form, through which women 
could devise their own methods, collect their own funds and carry 
out their plans according to their own ideas. The first of these 
societies was formed in 1861 and was undenominational. Since 
then various branches of the evangelical church have organized 
their own societies. In our denomination, there are six separate 
organizations distributed over the United States, each having its 
distinctive name and bearing a parental relation to the auxiliaries 
in the churches within its geographical boundaries. The one to 
which we pay tribute is the “Woman’s Foreign Missionary So- 
ciety of the Presbyterian Church,” and has its headquarters in 
Philadelphia. This society had its birth October 4, 1870, and 
seems to have been the offspring of an inspiration—a thought born 
of God in the hearts of a few christian women in that city, who 
“felt that they could have no rest for their souls until an organ- 
ized effort was begun by Presbyterian women for the salvation of 
their heathen sisters.” 

“The Kittanning Auxiliary of the Woman’s Foreign Missionary 
Society of the Presbyterian Church” was organized on the 28th of 
November, 1873. At the request of our Pastor, Rev. T. D. Ewing, 
seventeen ladies met with him for that purpose. A constitution 





and by-laws were unanimously adopted and officers were elected. 
One week later another meeting was held; plans for work were 
formulated; committees were appointed, and since that day the 


~ 


216 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


work of the society has been carried on without interruption. By 
referring to Article II of the Constitution we find “‘its special ob- 
ject shall be to aid the general society in sending to foreign fields 
and sustaining female missionaries, bible-readers and_ teachers, 
who shall labor among heathen women and children.” The re- 
ports of the committees were so encouraging that the society felt 
justified in undertaking to “sustain a female missionary,’ and 
accordingly Mrs. Eckard, of China, was adopted by us. One year 
after, she was compelled on account of ill health to return to this 
country, so Mrs. W. F. Johnson, of India, became our “‘special 
object’’ and remained under our care for twelve years. 


Then she, with her husband, returned home for an indefinite 
length of time. Shortly after their return, they visited us, and 
many of you will remember her as she stood on this platform, tell- 
ing of her work and pleading for India. We were all strangely 
drawn to her by affectionate ties and hoped to have her with us 
again; but, God Scalled™ her “1072. 7higher service7.) 56 saw ae 
thrown from a carriage when returning from church and received 
injuries from which death ensued a few days later. 


After it was certainly known that Mrs. Johnson would not re- 
turn to India, (Dr. Johnson having accepted the Presidency of 
Biddle University,) we thought best to adopt another missionary, 
and, of those offered to us, we chose Mrs. J. H. Judson, of Hang- 
chow, China. She has been our representative there for four years 
and we have had an occasional letter from her. In the last one, 
written February 20th, she gives an interesting and encouraging 
report of her work, and makes this request: “‘Oh! please do pray 
for these precious souls that they may be led to the true God, and 
find rest to their souls. Please think of and pray for me often.”’ 


As I have already said, the work of this society has been carried 
on without interruption. Monthly meetings are held and although 
- the membership has always numbered about one hundred and 
twenty, we have not yet been able to induce any but the “Board of 
Managers” to attend these meetings, and this is one of the most 
discouraging features of our work. The burden of responsibility 
rests upon a few. The members of the society do certainly repose 
great confidence in the officers and have always given them ample 
financial support, but | believe much more could be done for the 
cause of foreign missions 1n this church 1f there was a better under- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 217 
standing of the need of workers. There is nothing will move us to 
good works like having our sympathies enlisted in a good cause, 
and no place in which this can be done better than in a missionary 
meeting. We note with pain the absence from our meetings of 
the voung women of our church. This is out of all proportion 
and is sufficient to “cause anxious thought.” Not that I would 
detract anything from the excellence of the work done by the 
Pastor’s Aid Society.” 

The necessary and logical result of woman’s foreign missions 
is woman’s home missions. Shall we send the bread of life to our 
sisters afar off and give stones to the perishing at homer No, in- 
deed! And the young women of this church have, through their 
society, done “home” mission work in the fullest sense of that 
word. But did it never occur to you, dear friends, that the work 
of carrying on the Foreign Missionary Society will be yours some 
dayr Are you fitting yourselves for it? Gladly would we wel- 
come you toit. A few of you are contributing members and many 
of you are interested in the success of the society, but we want you 
all not only to contribute but to bring your talents and abilities 
right into the work. 


Since the organization ot this society till the present time (in 
round numbers) $8,600 have been paid into the treasury. This 
money has been raised by means of membership fees, subscriptions, 
donations, collections, mite-boxes, and thank offerings, but 1n every 
instance, except in the matter of $112, by voluntary free-will 
offerings. This society has never yet made a fair or festival, but a 
“band” of little girls once raised $112 in that way, which was paid 
into our treasury. One-half of this sum was given to the general 
fund and so was not applied to the special work of this society. 
The financial condition has always been up to the standard. The 
annual salaries of Mrs. Eckard and Mrs. Johnson were $450 and 
Mrs. Judson’s $400. $8,340 have been paid to the treasurer of 
the society at Philadelphia. $225 have been spent for incidentals. 

Here | wish to mention the liberal contributions from the Sun- 
day School. Previous to the formation of this society, the penny 
collections of the school were taken up for foreign missions, and 
at the time of organization it was agreed to pay them into the 
treasury of this society. For several years, we received all of their 
contributions, but of late they increased so much that the Sunday 


218 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


School teachers in session resolved that we should be limited to 
$100 per annum. 

“Were | asked what we most need, | should reply, continuing 
instant in prayer.” There is danger in an effort to keep our con- 
tributions up to the standard, of our forgetting that to give with- 
out praying is “to do the work of the Lord negligently.” Soon 
after the organization of this society, a woman’s prayer meeting 
was formed, which for several years was well sustained. It still 
lives—but at a “poor dying rate.” Oh! for a faith which will 
grasp the promise to “two or three,’ for often that number only 
“are met together.”’ The hour for this meeting is three o'clock, 
Saturday afternoons. Let every woman in our church, and especi- 
ally every one who once was a part of this prayer meeting, ask 
herself if she is responsible for the present. spiritual declension 
and then do her part to bring about a better condition of things. 
Does some one say “the meetings are not as interesting as thev 
once werer” Admitting that this is true, (for a full meeting is an 
inspiration in itself,) who is to be blamed for the lack of interest? 
Certainly not one of those who are struggling to keep the woman’s 
prayer meeting alive. What they want and need and pray for, Is 
an outpouring of the Spirit of God that there may be “a shaking 
ol the dry bones!" a Turneusacaing, O01) Godeolghostseancecause 
thy face to shine upon us and we shall be saved.” 


| have felt constrained to omit personal mention of all those 
who have been connected with this society. For me to tell and 
you to hear of their service of love and devotion would indeed be 
a pleasure, but this “sketch” has already grown to undue length. 
I wish | might speak of some who have been identified with its 
every interest from the beginning of its existence until now and 
whose enthusiasm has never waned. I could also tell of those 
who, although they have gone from us, are yet with us in sym- 
pathy and still have a more tender feeling for the “old home” 
society than they ever can have for any other. And what shall | 
say of those whose earthly work is doner “And I| heard a voice 
from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are dead which die 
in the Lord from henceforth! Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may 
rest from their labors and their works do follow them.” 


| have endeavored to give a “historical sketch” of the Woman's 
Foreign Missionary Society. Such a task might have seemed 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 219 


hopeless in the undertaking, for my pen would falter were I to 
attempt to give upon paper the most important part of its history, 
since 1t concerns the things that are invisible and eternal. This 
shall not be known until “the books” are “opened.”” With grateful 
hearts that we have been permitted to have any part in this work, 
and believing that God has blessed our imperfect efforts to serve 
him, we turn to the future. What shall it ber Each one of us 
must answer for herself, but, dear sisters, 1f at this meeting one 
tiny seed-thought is wafted toward you, prepare the soil of your 
heart to receive it; pray for the dews of divine grace to water it 
and may it bring forth fruit in abundance to God’s honor and 
elory. 


HISTORICAL SKETCH OF HOME MISSIONARY SOCIETY 


BY Mrs. G. W. DoverSPIKE 


On October 4, 1882, at the request of our pastor, a number of 
ladies remained at the close of the prayer meeting for the purpose 
of organizing a Home Missionary Society. At this meeting the 
following officers were elected: 


President--Mrs. W. B. MEREDITH 
Vice President—Mrs. Guy MECHLING 
Secretary—Miss JULIETTE ROBINSON 
Treasurer—Mkrs. G. W. DovERSPIKE 


At a meeting a few days later, three additional Vice Presidents 
were elected: Mrs. Luker, Mrs. Schotte, and Miss Stonecipher, 
and the society constituted itself into a sewing society. The object 
was to assist In preparing boxes for home missionaries. As it was 
thought this would only be a temporary arrangement no con- 
stitution was adopted at that time. 

The first work of the society was the preparation of a box of 
clothing for a home missionary laboring in Wisconsin. Voluntary 
contributions were asked for, and $75 were paid into the treasury. 
A few weeks afterward a fair and festival were held at which $123 
were realized. The society, by this time, felt they were quite rich, 
and the good work began in earnest. 

We met from week to week and prepared clothing for our 


220 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


missionary and his family, and other household articles, so that 
when the box was ready for shipment on November 25, it was 
valued at $125, and there was a handsome balance in the treasury. 
In addition to this, contributions of second-hand clothing were 
solicited and three barrels were packed and sent to the Freedmen. 
This was our first year’s work, and it certainly was a success. 

On the following year (1883), voluntary contributions were 
again asked for, and with the balance in the treasury from the 
previous year, the society prepared and sent to Challis Station, 
Washington Territory, a box equally as valuable as the first one. 
This was intended to supplement the meagre salary of a mission- 
ary in that distant part of the country. 

In 1884, a small, struggling church in Caldwell, Ohio, was the 
recipient of our gifts and labors; besides this, aid was also rendered 
to poor persons and needy ministers in our own neighborhood. 

San Pedro, California, was the destination of the box of cloth- 
ing prepared in 1885. 

In 1886, a valuable box was sent to Western lowa. 

In 1887, the money raised was divided; part of it was paid to 
the Woman’s Executive Committee of Home Missions, and the 
remainder used in supplying suitable clothing for a pastor and his 
family, who had charge of a weak church in Maryland. 


On the evening of October 29, 1888, society met and after con- 
sulting together, decided to adopt a constitution which had been 
prepared by a committee appointed for that purpose. The object 
and aim of the society now 1s to promote the interests of home 
missions by prayer, contributions and spread of general infor- 
mation. The business is conducted by a standing committee 
elected annually. This committee consists of a President, Vice 
President, Treasurer, and a board of eight managers. The meet- 
ings are held monthly and are opened and closed by devotional 
exercises. Since the adoption of the constitution, the preparation 
of a box of clothing is a secondary consideration, although one 
has been sent each year since, and it 1s expected that this feature 
of the work will still be carried on. 


In 1888, the pastor of a church in the mountainous regions of 
North Carolina, was the recipient of our valuable donations. 

In 1889, Western Iowa was again the destination of a box of 
clothing and articles for household use; and in addition to this 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 221 


a large package of second-hand clothing for Freedmen’s school, 
valued at $60, was shipped to Eastern Virginia. 

Thus, hastily, | have given you a brief review of our work 
since Our organization, and all who have been engaged in it feel 
that their labor has not been in vain. 

The kind words of appreciation and thanks that come back to 
us from the missionaries after receiving the boxes, doubly repay 
all for their work. “Truly it 1s more blessed to give than to re- 
celve... 

The society has twice been called upon to part with one of its 
members. The first was our beloved friend, Mrs. Mayers, who 
was called away on March 10, 1887, and the second, our dear 
friend, Mrs. Bowser, whose death occurred in California in Feb- 
ruary of this present year. 

In the death of these two friends and earnest workers the 
society met with a great loss. We often recall their usefulness in 
every department of work in connection with this society. From 
such dispensations, we should learn the lessons God would teach 
us and realize that as the force of workers grows smaller, those left 
must take up their work and strive to carry 1t on more successfully. 

Just one word in conclusion. After eight years of successful 
work, may we not hope and strive to accomplish much greater 
results in the future, and may we not expect every lady in this 
congregation to lend a helping hand? Let us all consecrate our- 
selves anew to this mission of assisting others, and be willing to 
do our share in this grand work. Whatsoever our hands find to 
do, may we do it with our might. 


ADDRESS 
By Mrs. J. H. McCain 


Through the din of rolling centuries; these words come down 
to us tonight: “Go ye, therefore, and make disciples of all na- 
tions, baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son 
and of the Holy Ghost.” Not alone to his chosen twelve was this 
command given, not alone to the few who knew and loved him 
when he was here among men, but to each of our number assem- 
bled here, comes this one last desire of our Great Leader, “Make 
disciples of all nations.” 


222 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


To us, as individuals, he has entrusted the word of his salva- 
tion; not to be held quietly and selfishly to ourselves, that we 
alone may receive profit and benefit, but to publish throughout 
the world; over land and sea, hill and valley, this simple story of 
the cross; tell how Jesus took our burdens and bore them for us 
in his own body on the tree. 

It may need the words of wisdom, to talk of the philosophy of 
Confucius; or the language of the poet to point out the beauties of 
Buddha, but not so of this story we come to tell; that teaches of 
mercy and grace a story so sweet, so simple, that even a little child 
may repeat it so effectively that it may cause the great and learned 
to bow down before the name of Jesus. 

Those of us who attended the recent Missionary meeting at 
Saltsburg, cannot but feel our own littleness, when we think of 
the inimitable Mrs. Bell, a woman whom God put into this world 
to see something, and one that this work of missions, has taught 
to tell what she sees, in a particularly interesting and fascinating 
manner; or our newly elected President, Mrs. Barr, who impresses 
you not only by personal appearance, but by her manner of speak- 
ing, as a woman of power and force, a total absence of affectation, a 
will to do, and a determination to succeed; and last, but not least, 
Mrs. Thompson, of great executive ability, a right understanding 
of the relation between what she could do and say, and of the 
rest of the delegates’ doings and sayings; not only does she know 
how to preside, but she knows that she knows it. [I do not mean 
that she thinks no one can do as well as she; on the other hand, 
she seems to see a latent power for good in almost every one, and 
was of the opinion that each delegate could accomplish wonders 1f 
she thought so, and 1s not this the real secret of those women who 
are so successful in this work? Not that God has given them 
unusual talents, but that they work whenever and wherever the 
opportunity is offered. Let us then do what our hands find to 
do, and do it with a will; for this work of spreading the Gospel 
is an individual matter. Let all be messengers, all herald the 
truth, if not directly, indirectly. God claims your interest in this 
cause, do not refuse it. Leave not the work to others, but each 
come to the front and bear your share of the burden, not only by 
the giving of money when one of the active members calls to 
collect it, but by coming out to the monthly meetings and render- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 223 


ing what service you can; if you can do nothing else, you will 
keep the “rust and dust from gathering on your own soul.”’ 

Ah! | hear some one say, “I cannot do that, | am burdened 
by the cares of little children.” To such I would say, work where 
you are, there’s no better field. Take the weak little hands, 
strengthen them that they may be ready to work; dedicate them 
to the service of the Gospel. Surely you would ask no employ- 
ment more honorable, more worthy than to be the messenger of 
heavenly truth from God to man, impress upon their youthful 
minds, now “wax to receive and marble to retain,” the full im- 
portance of Missions; or do older children claim your attention? 
Girls, perhaps, in all the brightness and freshness of early woman- 
hood, infuse this spirit of Mission Work. See to it, mothers, that 
they bring their life and vivacity, and zeal and strength into the 
work of diffusing this gospel which can alone save from ignorance, 
sin and misery. 

Within the last twenty years the women of our church have 
done much to spread the Gospel through foreign lands, causing 
the light to break 1n upon the chill and gloomy hearts of many 
who sit in darkness. And, like mercy, this giving has been twice 
blessed; blessing those that were the means of giving, as well as 
those who received. 

By coming to our monthly meetings and working for this 
cause, we have seen the narrow-minded take a broader view of 
life; the indolent woman become a zealous worker. She who was 
wont to stand back and coldly criticise the work of the more active 
members, 1s among the most earnest and efficient workers. Truly 
the missionary societies have done wonders in stirring up the iatent 
powers that have so long lain dormant in the women of our church. 

In the words of a great missionary worker, 100,000 women 
monthly bring the best product of their brains; 36,000 women 
learning to preside, to keep Secretary’s books, and Treasurer’s ac- 
counts, and all learn to collect and spend judiciously several mil- 
lion dollars annually. 

But it is not enough that we give our time, money and talent. 
Every letter that comes trom foreign fields brings this message, 
“Pray forus.” Yes, we must daily, yea, hourly, plead the promises 
of grace, that God will bless the workers in whatever land they be. 
Help them, that through their labors the eye of the benighted shall 
be opened, the prisoners of sin set free. 


224 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Remembering that the promises of God are gloriously large, 
for he has given us the blessed assurance, “This Gospel of knowl- 
edge shall be preached in all the world, for a witness of the nation, 
and the earth shall be full of the glory of the Lord, as the waters 
that cover the sea.” Forget not the wonderful things he has done 
for us in the past, and have faith to hope for greater things 1n the 
future. May God this night create in our hearts greater devotion 
and zeal than we have ever had, may he so stir up the spirit of 
every christian that they may be led-to take pity on heathen lands. 

How affecting was the prayer of the good bishop. After some 
affairs of devotion were closed, he said, in the most solemn man- 
ner, “Oh! thou God of all grace, who hath called us to thy eternal 
glory by Jesus Christ, strengthen and settle us. Have mercy on 
all, that they may come to the knowledge of the truth and be 
saved. Other foundation can no man lay—” and he spake no 
more, for as the last words were uttered, death came and sealed 
his lips forever; but what a beautiful testimony he left, what gos- 
pel hope. So may it be with us, that we may tell this story of 
the cross in life, and that our last words shall help extend the Em- 
pire of the King of Righteousness, and of the Prince of Peace. 

The day will come when all shall be gathered from the snowy 
mountains of Greenland, from the sultry plains of India, from the 
distant Islands of the South sea, from Africa’s desert and arid 
land, from all nations, from all stations of society they will meet, 
one “‘blood-bought throng” and take up the song, “Blessing, and 
honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the 
throne, for ever and ever.” 

May we, as a christian congregation, with all the enthusiasm 
of earnest prayer, as well as of poetry, unite tonight in this praver, 


“Almighty God, thy grace proclaim, 
In every land, of every name; 
Let adverse powers before thee fall, 
And crown our Jesus, Lord of all.” 


Remarks by Rev. Dr. Ewing. 


Social Gathering in the Lecture Room. 


At the close of the exercise as outlined in the program, the 
members of the congregation repaired to the lecture room of the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning pd, 


church, where an hour was spent in delightful social intercourse. 
The ladies of the Home and Foreign Missionary Societies of the 
church had prepared refreshments, which contributed greatly to the 
pleasure and comforts of the evening. 

We regret that the address of Miss McKay could not be had 
for publication; it would have made complete the missionary 
evening. The occasion was one of great interest and was success- 
fully carried out. It was one of our pleasantest farewell services, 
and will long be remembered by all present. 


SATURDAY, JUNE 14TH, 3 P. M. 


GADIES -MISSIONARY PRAYER MEETING 


DEDICATORY SERVICES 


SUNDAY, JUNE ID5TH 


Sabbath School, 9 A. M.—Addresses by former members. 


Rev. Dr. Irwin, Ebenezer, Pa. 
Rey si. loan, leeechbure. Pa. 
Hon. James W. Over, Pittsburgh, Pa. 


The three persons whose names appear on the program and 
former members of the Sabbath School, were invited to be present 
and deliver addresses at the exercises attending the opening of the 
new building. To the great regret of a large audience and many 
personal friends, they were all unavoidably absent. We print the 
letters of regret sent by Drs. Irwin and Sloan, and Judge Over; 
also one from J. Alexander Fulton, of Dover, Del., a former mem- 
ber of this Church and at one time superintendent of the Sabbath 
School. 


DR. IRWIN’S LETTER 
Barnards, Armstrong Co., Pa., June 12, 1890. 


My Dear BrotTHER—I had all my arrangements made for a 
visit to Armstrong County and anticipated much pleasure in meet- 
ing my former friends and acquaintances. Especially was this 
the case in regard to being present at your church dedication. 
My earliest recollections cluster around the Sabbath School of your 


220 ~—- History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


church. It was in the old church building I was dedicated to God 
in baptism and it was here I first heard the gospel preached and 
learned the way of salvation. With these hallowed associations 
it is no wonder | was anxious to be present at the dedication of the 
new church building, but to my great regret | must be absent. 
Just before leaving home to come to my mother’s, I received a 
summons to serve as a juror in the United States Court, at Wil- 
liamsport, Pa., on Monday, June 16th. After having made 
examination in regard to all the different routes, | find I must leave 
on Saturday in order to reach there in time on Monday. For 
this reason | leave mother’s tomorrow for home. 

I feel grateful for the position you assign me on the program 
and would have made every effort to be present, but for the rea- 
sons mentioned. My earnest prayer is that God will richly bless 
pastor and people. As the new church building far exceeds the 
old in architectural beauty, may the glory of the Lord also fill the 
house and its crowning excellence be that which made the old 
church so precious to the memory of those who worshipped there; 
that the truth of God’s word was faithfully and earnestly preached 
from the pulpit and taught in the Sabbath School, and_ that 
Christ’s presence was manifested in the weekly prayer meeting and 
that the rich blessings of the Master rested upon all His servants 
and handmaidens in every department of church work and that 
by the blessing of God upon the means of grace many found the 
way of life and were fitted for Heaven. May the future be as the 
past and much more abundant in all that blesses humanity and 
honors God. 


Very truly and sincerely your brother, 
D. J. [RwiIn 


DRESLOAN?S LE GREER 


Eeechbure. Pas) une 12 ouu 
Rev. H. L. Mayers, 


Dear friend and brother, 


On my return from Blairsville, where | have spent 
two delightful days in attendance on the services commemorative 
of the semi-centennial of Dr. Hill’s pastorate and the closing exer- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 227 
cises of the Blairsville Seminary, I find awaiting me the charming 
program of services in connection with the dedication of your new 
house of worship to the holy use for which you have reared it. 
Your farewell to the dear old church 1s already past, an event that 
would be truly sad if it were not relieved by the prospect of 
occupying the fine new one so much more commodious and every 
way adapted to the wants of the present large and progressive con- 
eregation. When you enter those new walls, may you find the 
cloud of the glory of the Lord already there! 


One item on your long and varied program specially arrests 
my attention and gives me concern. It is that which announces 
me to appear at one of the services as one who was a member of 
the: Sabbath School in the long ago. While | am pleased with 
this token of kind remembrance, | am much grieved to be com- 
pelled to write that I will have to miss the pleasure of being there. 
lf this announcement is a disappointment to any to whom it may 
come, be assured it is no small disappointment to me. On the day 
of your dedication | have an appointment of several weeks stand- 
ing to fill in Fayette county, and as it 1s in payment of a debt | 
feel all the more compelled to be there. If it were possible to be 
in two places at one time I would be with you also. As it is I shall 
be with you all in thought and sympathy, and trust the occasion 
may be all in every respect that any one could reasonably desire 
it to be. 


My connection with the Sabbath School of your church began 
in the spring of 1859 and continued for two years and a half, or 
till the fall of 1862. During those years my father was sheriff 
of the county and his family resided with him in Kittanning. | 
remember that the very first night | was in Kittanning as a citizen, 
I went to the Presbyterian Church and heard a lecture, replete 
with historic lore, by J. B. Finlay, LL. D., on “John Calvin and his 
times.” 

On entering the Sabbath School, I was for a short time a mem- 
ber of Dr. Finlay’s bible class. I was then put in charge of a class 
of sweet young girls whose memories I[ cherish, numbers of 
whom are yet there as mothers in Israel, but whose names | had 
better not mention lest | make them blush or stir the ire of their 
husbands by speaking of them as “sweet.” Blessings be on the 
heads of themselves, their husbands, and their children! 


CO 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


At the beginning of the time I have mentioned, James E. 
Brown was the honored and efficient Superintendent of the school, 
as for years before he had been. But insisting on being relieved, 
under a constitution calling for a new election of officers every 
three months, there succeeded him in turn, as nearly as | can now 
remember, Dr, Finlay, J. Alexander Fulton, Esq., and [homas 
McConnell. I was myself called to succeed Mr. McConnell and 
continued to fill that responsible position till the time of my re- 
moval from Kittanning in October, 1862. 


Although so many years have flown | cherish many pleasant 
memories of the school and of people whose acquaintance | 
formed while a resident of Kittanning. I have distinct recollec- 
tion of a great demonstration made by the school, while under -the 
enthusiastic superintendency of Dr. Finlay, on a certain 4th of 
July, | think in 1860. The turn-out was very large, and the pro- 
cession headed by a banner having on one side the inscription, 
“Sabbath School. of the First Presbyterian Church,’ and on the 
other the motto, “Feed My Lambs,” proceeded to the top of the hill 
above the Court House where an elaborate program of exercises 
was carried out and refreshments served. During the time of my 
superintendency the first instrument for the exclusive use of the 
Sabbath School was procured. It was a small melodeon, pro- 
cured at a cost, | think, of $32. Previous to this the organ from 
the gallery of the church had been carried down with much labor 
and trouble. The little music box was regarded by the school, 
and especially by the young men who used to carry the organ 
back and forth, as a valuable acquisition. Another pleasing inci- 
dent of that time that | remember was the presentation to the 
school of a small library of books by Mrs. Over, mother of the 
Judge whose name appears on your program in connection with 
my own. I trust he may be there to respond for himself and those 
of us who have to be absent. 

That the occasion will be one of rare interest and enjoyment 
I feel assured. The dedication of a magnificent church edifice 
such as yours, one that seems likely to stand while centuries of 
coming time go by, is an event in the history of any church of 
uncommon interest and significance. 

On this glad occasion, to you the pastor who have contributed 
so much to this consummation; to all my old-time friends and 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 229 


associates who may remain to the present time, and to the entire 
congregation and Sabbath School as now constituted, | tender my 
affectionate regards and most hearty congratulations. 


Very sincerely yours, 
D. H. SLOAN. 


See ONE Kage ele Bik 


Pittsburgh, Pa., June 16, 1890. 
Hon. P. K. BowMaN, 


My DEAR FRIEND: 


As I hoped to see you personally and thank you for 
your kind invitation to be present at the dedication of your new 
church building | did not reply to your note. Owing to sickness 
in my family it was not possible for me to be with you. I looked 
forward with much pleasure to the occasion, as [| wished very 
much to meet my Kittanning friends, and was greatly disappoint- 
ed when | found it was necessary for me to stay at home. 

Please explain to Mr. Doverspike and Rev. Mr. Mayers the 
reason of my absence. 
With kind regards to your family and all my friends, I remain, 


Yours truly, 
J. W. Over. 


Nike ee O Nose Ie LER 


Dover, Del., June 13, 1890. 
My Dear Sir: 


A friend has thoughtfully sent me a programme of the 
Dedicatory Services of the First Presbyterian Church of Kittan- 
ning, now in progress, and which are to be completed next Sabbath. 

| regret that I cannot be present to witness these solemn and 
impressive services on this happy occasion. But though absent in 
the flesh | am present in spirit and rejoice heartily with you all in 
the crowning success of your well considered and well directed 
efforts in the erection of a new house of worship now to be dedi- 


230 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


cated to Almighty God. May His presence and blessing attend 
every one who calls upon Him within its sacred courts. 

With this simple expression of my joy and good will, | might 
close this note, but the recollections of other days impel me to add 
a few words more. The dates 


1830, 1856, 1890, 


mark the progress of the First Church from a weak and feeble 
congregation, weak in numbers and in means, then worshipping in 
their plain old building, and struggling to raise the meager salary 
promised to their faithful and devoted pastor, to an assembly 
strong in numbers and in means, and with an edifice beautiful in 
design, faultless in execution, and an honor to the town in which 
it stands, as to those whose liberality and zeal have placed it where 
it Is. 

It is most fitting that in the inner wall of this sacred building 
should be inserted, to keep in lasting remembrance, the name of 
Doctor Painter, who, for thirty-nine years, was the wise, the 
faithful, the devoted pastor of the First Church of Kittanning; and 
nothing on the programme is more grateful to my feelings than to 
see that his exemplary life and useful labors are remembered and 
are thus to be honored by those who so long enjoyed them. The 
First Church honors herself in honoring Dr. Painter, for a more 
upright man and worthy citizen, or a more prudent, conscientious 
and devoted pastor none of us ever knew. For seventeen years | 
was under his pastoral care and knew him well as neighbor, friend 
and guide, and during all that time | never knew him to make a 
mistake or commit a fault. Of only one other man within the 
circle of my acquaintance can [| say this. Both their portraits 
hang side by side in our sitting room here, and I never look upon 
their benign and serene countenances without a feeling of profound 
respect for their memories, and an aspiration for a better life, in- 
spired by their example. Dr. Painter’s life was a living epistle, 
known and read of all men who came within the circle of his 
acquaintance and influence. Most worthily has he earned this 
mark of affectionate regard. Most appropriately has this tablet 
been placed in the walls of the new church. It is but the outward 
symbol of that hidden one of the heart, which he has always had, 
for 

“None knew him but to love him; 
None named him but to pratse.” 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning Za 


Other names and other well-remembered faces crowd upon 
me thick and fast. How dear, and how much | should like to 
speak to them all. But I cannot. They have ceased from their 
labors. They have gone to their reward. They will never in the 
flesh see this beautiful church. They now worship “in that 
house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” 

Well do | remember the days of 1855-6, when, with much toil 
and difficulty, General Orr and 1, as members of the Building 
Committee, went from house to house, and office to office, soliciting 
funds in order to complete the work that had been ordered and 
done; the excuses we listened to; the rebuffs we met; the disap- 
pointments we experienced; all at last wiped out and almost for- 
gotten in the triumph of final success. How. Dr. Plumer, the 
gifted and revered, came from the Western Theological Seminary 
to assist in the dedication service; how venerable he was; with 
what impressiveness he read the first hymn, and in that simple 
act arrested and retained the closest attention of the large con- 
gregation. All that solemn and dramatic scene in the old church 
on Jefferson street is now before me in vivid colors. How many 
of those who witnessed and of those who participated, then, 
are here now’ I know not. Many | know have passed on. Dr. 
Painter was there, serene and pleased, his noble countenance 
beaming with quiet pleasure and gratitude. 

So I might go on, naming friend after friend, incident after 
incident, almost without limit; but time and space and patience 
forbid. 

One name, however, | cannot omit. I would do violence to 
my feelings if I did. In recalling the names of the many faithful 
workers in the church and Sabbath School, that of Mrs. Harriet 
H. Calhoun will always appear in the front rank. She loved her 
Saviour; she loved his church; and she showed it not only by her 
contribution but by her personal works as well. One of the 
things she set her heart upon was what is now so happily achieved 
—this new and beautiful church. How she would rejoice if 
present; how you will miss her at the dedication. It stands just 
where she hoped to see it. How her heart would have swelled with 
gratitude, and her eyes beamed with pleasure had she been per- 


oe History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


mitted to witness its dedication. May not her spirit be permitted 
to witness these solemn services and to listen to these sacred songs 
of gladness within the temple she so longed to see built to the 
honor of her God, so beautiful for situation, and in its materials, 
proportions, finish, and appointments so creditable to the builders 
and the old town in which it stands. 

That it may be accepted by Jehovah, and be sanctified by the 
presence of the Holy Spirit; and that in the upper sanctuary, it 
may be said of multitudes, “all these were born there,” is the sin- 
cere prayer of an old friend and former 


Fellow-worshipper, 


J. ALEXANDER FULTON. 


Church Services, 11 A. M.—Devotional Exercises. 


SERMON BY REV. DR. MOFFAT 
President of Washington and Jefferson College 


Gop’s WILLINGNESS TO SAVE 


| Timothy 2:3, 4. “For this is good and acceptable in the 
sight of God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and 
to come to the knowledge of the truth.” 

I am expected to preach a sermon appropriate to the occasion 
which brings us together today—the dedication of this beautiful 
building to the public worship of God. But I shall not speak 
about the building—although even of this material structure it 
might be said, that it “1s good and acceptable in the sight of God 
our Saviour,” even as it 1s in Our own eyes—but I shall try to 
direct your thoughts to the kind of public worship that should find 
expression in it. Fine as this edifice is, in its symmetry of form 
and harmony of finish, much as it has cost you in labor, thought 
and gift, 1t is only a means to an end, a convenient place for car- 
rying on a part of the great work committed to the followers of 
Christ. The means should never be valued above the end, the 
place where we publicly worship God should not be allowed to 
draw off our attention from the worship itself. Let us, therefore, 
consider together the spirit of true worship 1n God’s house. 


Vn 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 233 


Upon the principle that Paul emphasizes in his letters those 
truths which at the time needed emphasis, we may infer that the 
early christians had fallen into a selfish habit in the public worship. 
Their prayers and praises had primary or exclusive regard to their 
own interests. They were, at least while engaged in acts of public 
worship, indifferent to the eternal and spiritual interests of the 
great world without. We may fancy them as reasoning among 
themseles after this fashion: “Why should we pray for the Gen- 
tiles, who care for none of these thingsr What use is there in 
praying for the Jews, who are the bitter enemies of the christian 
churchr Will God hear our prayers in behalf of rulers, who are 
not only personally wicked, but who are using all the power of 
their official positions to crush out our infant churchr Can God 
be pleased to hear from us prayer for those who are bitterly hostile 
to Him and his people?” Whether they reasoned in this way or 
not, they had a way of conducting their public worship, or a spirit 
in it, that led Paul to correct their wrong ways and false concep- 
tions, and, in so doing, he puts prayer for all men in the very first 
place. “I exhort therefore, that, first of all” (first in importance 
or at the beginning of worship,) “supplications, prayers, interces- 
sions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings, and 
all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable 
life in all godliness and honesty.” And then, so far is God from 
feeling as we are apt to feel about wicked men and prayer for them, 
the apostle declares positively that “this is good and acceptable in 
the sight of God our Saviour, who will have (that is, desires or 
wishes to have) all men to be saved and to come unto the knowl- 
edge of the truth.” 


In developing this principle let us observe— 


|. What is to be the attitude of the true worshipper of God 
toward all his fellow-men. It is evident from the whole passage, 
of which the text forms a part, that true worship cannot be selfish. 
A company of christians getting together within the four walls of 
a building and praying God to bless them, make them holy, happy 
and prosperous, whatever becomes of “them who are without,” is 
not a company of true worshippers. True worship must not only 
spring from and express love toward God but love toward man as 
well. God has joined these together and man may not put them 


234 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


asunder. As one cannot truly love God if he loves not his fellow- 
man, exhibiting the former love, which is invisible, by the visible 
acts which prove the existence of the latter love, so must these two 
combine and find expression 1n true worship. 

It is true, indeed, that a christian cannot love a wicked man 
as he can a fellow-christian. His love cannot in that case be based 
upon approval of either character or conduct. He may feel only 
repugnance towards the deeds of the wicked; yet he can exercise 
that kind of love which God exercises toward the members of a 
sinful race; and he can pray for the conversion of all men. The 
more wicked a man Is the more apparent becomes his need of con- 
version. However clear our conviction may be that a man’s deeds 
deserve punishment, and that his presence in the world is injurious, 
we may yet cherish the desire for his conversion and suppress the 
vengeful feelings naturally excited by his actions. This is certain- 
ly the spirit of the New Testament. How emphatically has Jesus 
Christ taught this truth. “If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and 
there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee; leave 
there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled 
to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Here a man, 
in the very act of worshiping God, is checked, and commanded to 
postpone his worship until he stand right with a brother-man. 
God does not care to receive the worship of one who knowingly 
disregards the duty of love to his neighbor. Reconciliation with 
God, important as it is, must wazt until there is reconciliation 
effected with man. In the same spirit did Jesus teach prayer for 
all sorts and conditions of men, and especially for the worst sorts. 
“But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse 
you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which 
despitefully use you and persecute you, that ye may be the children 
of your Father which 1s in heaven; for he makes his sun to rise on 
the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the 
unjust.” These directions of Jesus Christ are not for occasional 
use merely; they set forth the spirit which should characterize the 
christian always and everywhere, and if they be forgotten or 1gnor- 
ed in public worship that worship is vitiated to that extent. It is 
only a company of philanthropists, men-lovers, that can render 
to God acceptable worship. 

The reasoning by which the apostle sustains this position car- 





to 
WNW 
WN 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ries us at once back to the essential truths of Christianity. ‘“‘For 
there is one God.” All men, considered as creatures, stand equally 
close to the one God who made them all. As Creator and Pre- 
server God feels just as deep an interest in a Chinaman or savage 
African as in the cultivated American. His power and skill were 
as truly employed in making one as another. One mediator be- 
tween God and man, himself man, Christ Jesus, who gave himself 
a ransom for all.’ As sinners then we are all alike; we all stand 
on the same level, and must all be saved 1n the same way, God, of 
course, knows as well as we do all those differences of act, motive 
and life which cause us to pronounce some men more wicked than 
others, but these differences amount to nothing when our salvation 
is to be effected. All alike need the ransom and the ransom 1s 
alike for all. 

In the light of these great principles there can be no doubt 
about the proper spirit of true worshippers. When we come to- 
gether for public worship our thoughts must be turned manward 
as well as Godward, and the endeavor must be made to look 
charitably upon all men so that we may love them, as well as bow 
humbly before God. Piety without morality 1s no more pleasing 
to God than morality without piety. 


Il. Let us observe in the second place the attitude of God 
toward all men. It is similar to that which God requires us to 
take. As we are to pray for all, so God desires that all men be 
saved. This passage does not stand alone in teaching this truth. 
Very similar language is used by the Apostle Peter. II Peter 3:9. 
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promises, as some men count 
slackness, but is long-suffering to you-ward, not wishing that anv 
should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” These 
passages do not teach us that God has determined to save all men 
whether they want to be saved or not. The “willing” in these 
passages simply expresses the desire or wish of God, just as we 
may sincerely desire an event which we have not determined shall 
take place, but the voluntary occurrence of which would give us 
positive pleasure, so God sincerely desires the conversion of every 
man. Asa parent you desire the obedience of your child, but you 
desire a voluntary obedience. You will use physical force for 
awhile; but you set a limit to force, because you know that, carried 
too far, you may get the outward obedience of a slave, not the in- 


236 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 





ward obedience of the filial spirit. You may most earnestly de- 
sire the affection of another; but scorn to employ force or strate- 
gy to secure it. Now in such cases the fact that you limit your 
efforts does not raise any doubts as to the sincerity and earnestness 
of your desire; and in like manner the fact that God limits his 
efforts to save is not inconsistent with his desire that everyone 
should be saved. He desires, but the salvation must be voluntary 
on the part of the saved. God’s willing is not forcing. 

You are so familiar with this truth, that possibly you may 
not have observed how peculiar it 1s to the christian religion. 
Underlying all heathen ideas and practices is a conviction the oppo- 
site of this. God is esteemed unwilling to save, and hence must 
be placated or rendered propitious by sacrifices, pilgrimages, self- 
inflicted tortures, or gifts. Into no pagan mind can ever enter a 
glimmer of the truth of God’s willingness to save. And within 
christian lands the same belief 1s often exhibited. Even in public 
prayers you will sometimes hear an importunity that startles you, 
and makes you feel like interrupting the speaker with the question, 
Do you think God 1s so unwilling to grant your requests that you 
must labor with himr There is an importunity in prayer which 
Christ himself has commended, which springs out of the evident 
earnestness of the desire; but there is another kind of importunity, 
born, not of desire, but of unconsious doubt of God’s willingness 
to save. So some seem to seek their own salvation for a long 
time and in vain, because of their doubt of God’s willigness to 
save them, and their hesitation 1s not removed until, by appeal to 
the scriptures, their doubt of God is removed. There 1s, too, a 
defective view of the atonement implying this same doubt—a view 
not so much held by christians as attributed to them by sceptics— 
as when the death of Jesus Christ is represented as necessary to 
remove enmity from the heart of God and to induce him to love 
instead, as 1f God’s willingness to save had somehow been pur- 
chased by the blood of Christ. I need scarcely say that this is an 
utter perversion of the doctrine of the atonement. God’s love 
was not the result but the cause of Christ’s mission into our world. 
“God so loved the world’’—God was so willing to save the world— 
“that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth on 
him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not 
his Son into the world to judge the world; but that the world 





History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning wah) 


should be saved through him.” The doctrine of the atonement, 
rightly apprehended, presupposes God’s willingness to save and 
elves expression and effect to that willingness. 


IiI. Let me ask you now to consider a third topic, viz: the 
Character of God, thus exhibited, and particularly that God’s 
character is the ultimate basis of our faith and hope. 

We value the word of God and make it the foundation of our 
faith; but 1s there not danger that in our close adherence to the 
words, in our constant appeal to “Thus saith the Lord,’ we may 
overlook or underestimate the character of Him who utters the 
word. Every earnest christian may well be profoundly thankful 
for such a word as “Whosoever will let him take of the water of 
life freely;”’ but, after all, back of that word stands the character 
of God as conceived by us; and it is this conception of God’s char- 
acter that determines the degree of our faith. With perfect knowl- 
edge of God’s character we might dispense with God’s words as 
erounds of faith, and would need them only to convey to us the 
knowledge of God’s will. And, on the other hand, ignorant of 
God’s character, his words would fail to awaken confidence in us. 

We are not strangers to this principle, for it finds daily applica- 
tion in our relations to our fellow-men. When we say a man’s 
“word is as good as his bond,’ we mean to express such confidence 
in the man’s character that we care not for promises which can be 
enforced at law. Let me be satisfied of the entire honesty of a 
man, and I shall not care to have either a written or verbal promise 
from him to deal honestly always with me. Here my concep- 
tion of the man’s character 1s a sufficient basis for my faith in him. 
On the contrary, wanting confidence in his character, no words of 
his can excite confidence. 

| do not mean by this to disparage in the slightest degree 
God’s written or spoken word, but only to call your attention to 
the superior importance of his character. Both God’s words and 
actions have in view the revealing to us of his character, and to 
know the words is made subordinate to our knowing God. To rest 
upon the words is to stop short of our goal. Saving faith is not 
believing God, but believing in God; the faith must terminate on 
the person, and then we believe his words because we have confi- 
dence in him. 

If now you ask after the leading trait in the character of God 


238 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


as set forth in his word, it is his willingness to save men from sin. 
It can scarcely be exaggerated. From Genesis to Revelation it 1s 
expressed in variety of form. If it is his righteousness that is em- 
phasized, this impels him to save, for in proportion to God’s love 
of right and abhorrence of sin, must be his desire to save his crea- 
tures from the one and cultivate in them the other. If it is his 
mercy that is exalted, how has it been manifested otherwise than in 
providing escape from sin for the unworthy? When you read the 
fifth chapter of Paul’s Epistles to the Romans you may be puzzled 
to interpret its separate clauses, but you never fail to catch the un- 
derlying idea that salvation is more congenial to the character of 
God than the punishment of the transgressor; that mercy 1s his de- 
light and judgment his strange work. The easiness of the terms de- 
manded of all who would be saved proclaims the same truth; for 
however varied the statement of the conditions they are all included 
in the one requirement of faith in Jesus Christ, and this 1s essenti- 
ally an expression of God’s willingness to save all who are willing 
to be saved by him and in his own way. I know this is often ex- 
pressed differently, and that we are told that God is willing to save 
the elect and not willing to save the non-elect. This is true, but what 
we insist upon is that practically this is only a different way of ex- 
pressing the same truth. The elect are those who are willing to be 
saved in God’s way, and the non-elect are those who are not willing 
to be saved in God’s way. The line that divides the adult world 
into the two classes of elect and non-elect, corresponds exactly with 
the line that separates the same world into the willing and the not 
willing. No man is ever found on the elect side who is not also 
found on the side of the willing to be saved, and no man is ever 
found on the non-elect side who 1s not found to be unwilling to be 
saved. In the one case the dividing line is described from God’s 
point of view and in the other case from our point of view. No man 
was ever saved against his will; and every lost man was consciously 
unwilling to be saved in God’s way. Let these two modes of ex- 
pression stand side by side in your mind without allowing either 
one to modify the other; and do not attempt to show how God’s 
carrying out his purposes does not limit the freedom of which we 
are conscious. Your difficulty does not arise from conflict between 
these two facts, but from your inability to take God’s point of view. 
You are but acreature, and must not hope to enter into the experi- 
ences of the Creator. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 239 


[t is of more importance that we note the difference between 
the willing and the unwilling. Men are not unwilling to be saved 
from the penalty and other consequences of sin; but they are un- 
willing to be saved from sin. The too common experience of men 
is that they prefer to be permitted to commit such sins as they have 
a mind to, and they are restless because of the absence of tempta- 
tion, or the opportunity to sin. 


If, then, men fail to be saved it 1s not due to the absence of 
desire on God’s part, but of unwillingness on their part; and only 
proves that God having endowed man with a power of choice will 
not rob him of it, even to save him. He would have men obey 
him, but their obedience must be a willing obedience. 


| cannot forbear in closing to show the application of this great 
truth to the salvation of infants dying in infancy. This is a sub- 
ject of world-wide interest. Difficult as the problem has proved 
to be its discussion cannot be confined within the walls of theologi- 
cal schools. As a question, it is liable to arise within the walls of 
every home. No thoughtful parent buries a child without asking 
after his reasons for hope respecting his child’s eternal life. The 
difficulty in answering the soul’s question arises from the absence 
from the Bible of plain and positive declarations. All denomina- 
tions are alike here and one can find no more in his Bible than 
another. Nowhere in it can we find such a statement as our church 
now seems willing to insert in its Confession of Faith, “all infants 
dying in infancy are saved.” There are inferences from passages 
which treat of other matters which many consider a sufficient basis 
for their belief, but many others again deem these inferences un- 
satisfactory and are unwilling to go beyond the expression of a 
hope. And yet the belief in infant salvation has grown until men 
no longer venture to question it in public. How are we to account 
for this growth of belief? What after all is the basis of our be- 
liefr Is it not simple confidence in the character of God? As we 
have studied the Word of God and interpreted his providence, our 
conception of his character has become clearer and fuller, and con- 
fidence has grown naturally. As we apprehend more clearly God’s 
exceeding willingness to save, and find that willingness limited 
only by the unwillingness of the adult, we find ourselves left 
without any conceivable reason why God should not save the dying 
infant. With this confidence as a basis we may more readily read 


240 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


infant salvation into such words of Jesus as, “Suffer the little chil- 
dren and forbid them not to come unto me, for of such is the king- 
dom of heaven,” and “It is not the will of your Father in heaven 
that one of these little ones should perish.” 


I know that to some character as conceived by us will seem an 
indefinite kind of a basis for doctrine. A legal habit of mind 
may demand the words of the statute and refuse such vague 
authority as the character of a person, always difficult to read and 
express; but the legal habit of mind 1s for courts of justice where 
quarrels are to be settled, and the very lawyers who in the courts 
insist most strenuously upon the written contract, in their own 
homes value character above all words. The most precious con- 
fidences of our personal life rest on character, in the presence of 
which words are unheeded. Moreover, if we once grasp clearly 
and strongly the idea, that, after all, whatever may be the proxi- 
mate basis of our religious faith and hope, the ultimate basis must 
always be the character of God as intelligently and accurately 
gathered from his word, we shall be less disposed to disparage this 
ultimate basis as vague. 

Has not God himself taught us in his word to reason in this 
way and appeal for our beliefs to his known characterr When 
Jonah complained because God cared rather to save the people of 
Ninevah than to protect his prophet’s reputation as a foreteller of 
the future, God replied, “Should not | have pity on Nineveh, that 
great city wherein are more than six-score thousand persons that 
cannot discern between their right hand and their left, and also 
much cattler” The force of this question is in its appeal to Jonah’s 
sober second thought, and his knowledge of his own character. 
‘Are you Jonah so destitute of pity that you could destroy a city 
full of children, if any chance should occur to save them? And can 
you think that [| am wholly insensible to the claims of unthinking, 
inexperienced childhood?” But why appeal to any single instance? 
There is scarcely an appeal of God to man recorded in the Bible 
that 1s not either a call on man for confidence in the known char- 
acter of God, or positive instruction in regard to that character. It 
is surely no longer to the credit of christian men that they hesitate 
to assert the salvation of all dying infants because they can find 
no express declaration to that effect—as if the revealed character 
of God counted for nothing. 

Now, possibly, it may seem to you that | have wandered off 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 241 


from the topic announced at the beginning and have forgotten the 
occasion which brings us together today. But I have tried to em- 
phasize that great trait in God’s character, his willingness to save, 
his willingness to save all men, so that when you come together in 
this house Sabbath after Sabbath for public worship, it may be in 
that spirit which God himself exhibits and which he commends us 
also to exhibit. Let all the exercises of this house have primary 
regard to the salvation of all men, so that as God’s professed peo- 
ple you may ever be in harmony with him. God not only desired 
that all men be saved, but that they “be brought to the knowledge 
of the truth,” and this is the part of the work which he commits to 
us. God’s church must be both philanthropic and missionary. In 
these days this spirit of worship is not always found in buildings 
called churches, and where this spirit is wanting you have not a 
church but a religious club house with a spire. Make your church 
a centre whence good influences may flow forth, all around you, 
and even to the ends of the earth, and this will be “good and ac- 
ceptable in the sight of God our Saviour.” 


CONSECRATION OF THE HOUSE BY THE PEOPLE 


The Session of the church and the members of the Board of 
Trustees, having gathered around the pulpit, the pastor said, We 
are now come to dedicate this house to Almighty God, Father, Son 
and Holy Ghost. If it is your pleasure that this be done, let the 
officers and members of this church and congregation now an- 
swer— 

Have you been moved to the erection of this house by a sincere 
desire to continue among you the regular and solemn worship of 
the Most High God, for the spiritual benefit of yourselves, and 
your families, and of this community? 

Answer.—We have. 


Is it your desire and solemn purpose that this building shall 
be a house of worship, separated from secular uses, and devoted 
sacredly to the ordinances of religion, according to the customs 
and order of the Presbyterian Church in these United States? 

Answer.—It 1s. . 

Do you now with one heart give up this house to God, the 
Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, to be henceforth a house of 
prayer, a temple to His praise, and do you promise to provide for 
and to maintain here religious worship, seeing to it that not any- 


242 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


thing shall be wanting that may be needful for the decency and 
propriety and convenience thereof according to the customs and 
order of the Presbyterian Church? 

Answer.—We do. 

Blessed be the Lord God who hath put it into your hearts to 
build this house unto His name! The Lord accept the labor of 
your hands, which you have offered unto him this day, and make 
good to you and your children after you, the Word which He hath 
spoken: “In all places where I record my name, I will come unto 
thee and I will bless thee.” Here in His own temple may God be 
glorified, a pure gospel preached, sinners saved, and saints prepar- 
ed for glory; till generation after generation has passed away. 

May the Holy Spirit fill this place with salvation and glory, 
and from it send forth sanctifying influences far and wide, even 
until the kingdom of our blessed Lord has fully come. 

“Arises/O tord-intowlhy rest. sl how sand athe atkins 
strength. Let Thy ministering servants be clothed with 
righteousness, and let Thy saints shout with joy. Say, O Lord, 
“This is my rest forever; here will I dwell for I have desired it.” 
Amen and Amen. 


Prayer of Dedication by the Pastor. 
BENEDICTION 
Rev. Michael Schweigart, of the Lutheran Church. 


MEMORIAL SERVICE 
THREE P. M. 


Unveiling of Memorial Tablet to the Rev. Dr. Painter, Pastor 
of this Church 1[834-1873, by his Grand-daughter 


We have been asked a number of times, what purpose have you 
in view in this Memorial Service? The speaker who is to deliver 
the address upon this occasion will answer the question at length, 
but a word of explanation will not be out of place by your pastor. 

While this church building is the result of an earnest purpose 
on the part of the present generation, yet we feel, as we dedicate 
it today, that to many who are in their graves a large share of its 
credit and success is due. On their prayers and faithfulness and 
love we have built. Long years ago, they helped to lay the foun- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 243 


dations here of what has grown to be a strong and vigorous church; 
and surely those who work beneath the ground and lay foundation 
walls are as much entitled to recognition as the man who cuts the 
statute which adorns the top-most part of the structure. 

The interest of this service centres chiefly in the name and work 
of one man. It seemed fitting that some memorial should be 
placed in this building to the church’s first pastor, the Rev. Joseph 
Painter, D. D. Who so well could pronounce the words of eulogy 
appropriate, as the man who was both his successor and pastor of 
this church for so many years. 

There are scores of names which deserve mention and recogni- 
tion for their work and labor of love here through many years; 
but they must be unwritten and unmentioned in this. brief hour of 
meeting. Another occasion will come when the long roll will be 
called and the names that are marked with a star on the church 
register will be read. 

Our purpose, then, is expressed in the simple word, memorial. 
Our lives are indissolubly linked with those who were once strong 
pillars in this house of the Lord. We want to remember them to- 
day, and in this hour set apart for it, we would give expression to 
our appreciation of their lives and services in connection with this 
church. 

Westminster Abbey has been made illustrious on account of the 
memorials erected to the noble lives of many distinguished men and 
women. Our house of worship has neither the pomp, nor glory, 
nor splendor which belongs to such resting places of the dead; but 
these are not richer than ours in the affectionate remembrances 
which enter into the whole history of this church and people. It 
matters not whether there is any mark on this building by which 
others can trace their lives and labors, or whether their names are 
here or not, we know they are in God’s book of remembrance never 
to be blotted out. Today we acknowledge our debt of gratitude to 
the dead. Here in this memorial meeting we place on record our 
appreciation of the service they rendered to the church and to the 
cause of Christ in this community; we acknowledge that the bene- 
fits and blessings which we enjoy are in a great measure due to their 
self-sacrificing labors. 


The Memorial Tablet was now unveiled by Miss Mary Irvin 
Brown, grand-daughter of Rev. Dr. Painter. 


2 


44 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 








MEMORIAL I ABLET TO Dr. PAINTER 


tle atl 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 245 





MEMORIAL ADDRESS 


BY THE Rev. T. D.' Ewinc 


“And by it he being dead, yet speaketh.”—Heb. 11, 4. 


This eleventh chapter of Hebrews may very appropriately be 
called a model memorial sermon. The theme is faith—the 
preacher, the apostle Paul. He is writing to the christians who are 
in special danger of apostatizing to Judaism. He would encourage 
and confirm them in the truth as it is in Jesus Christ. In order 
to do this he draws his illustration from Jewish history. He first 
elves an inspired definition of faith. He presents clearly the 
nature, power and inestimable value of faith. For illustration he 
calls before them a long line of faithful heroes and heroines of the 
Old Testament Scriptures. He holds up before them what faith 
has accomplished in the past; by it they understand that “the 
worlds were created by the word of God.” 

It led Abel with his more excellent sacrifice to the altar of his 
God, and secured His favor. It strengthened Enoch to walk with 
God here on earth, and when the time of his departure came he 
simply went up and in, to walk with Him in glory. 

It led Noah, being warned that a flood was to be poured out 
upon a wicked world, to build an ark to the saving of himself and 
his house “by the which he condemned the world and became heir 
of the righteousness which 1s by faith.” 

It enabled Abraham to go forth cheerfully from home and 
friends and country, not knowing whither he went, to seek a city 
“which hath foundations whose builder and maker is God;” and at 
the word of his God to lay upon the altar his only son Isaac. 

This faith was the pole star in the life of Isaac and Jacob and 
Joseph; it caused Moses to turn his back upon the treasures of 
Eeypt and cast in his lot with Israel. 

This faith placed high in the roll of inspired history, Sarah and 
Rahab, Gideon and Barak, Sampson and Jephthah, David, Samuel 
and the prophets—worthies of whom the world was not worthy. 
These all being dead yet speak eloquently of the power and value 
of faith. 

So the apostle recalls the faithful ones. “He points to this one, 


246 ~——- History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


and that one, who had feared God and who had lived and labored 
and at last gone to the reward—to the intent that their lives may 
give strength and cheer to every weary pilgrim. He even represents 
them as a great cloud of witnesses compassing the life of the chris- 
tian; therefore be patient, be faithful until the race is run. ° 

The purpose of this memorial service is to pay a suitable 
tribute of respect to the memory of some of those christian men 
and women who have lived and labored with us in the past, but 
who have gone home to their rest. It 1s a commendable service, in 
view of the work which many of them have done in the interest of 
this congregation, and the longing which possessed many of them 
to see a new church erected here to the worship of God. 

We seem to stand in the presence of a great cloud of witnesses— 
those who, but a few years ago, were laborers in this part of the 
Master’s vineyard. 

We are not to hold before you perfect examples of the christian 
life. These loved ones had their faults as well as their virtues. 
Paul, with his inspired pen, did not present those ancient worthies 
as perfect examples of a godly life. He seems to draw the “cloak 
of charity” over their many faults and conceal them from our 
view; whilst he holds up before us their faith in God which was the 
substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen. 

We do well to follow the example of the apostle in this. Alas, 
that the couplet of the poet is oft so true, 


“The evil that men do lives after them; 
The good 1s oft interred with their bones.” 


Have we not a warrant in the religion of Jesus of Nazareth for, 
as far as possible in keeping with truth, casting the “cloak of 
charity” over the faults of others and lifting the good into ever- 
lasting remembrance?’ 

This memorial service must largely circle around and centre in 
one character—your first pastor—Dr. Painter; an entire pastorate 
of thirty years—from 1834 to 1864. If we add to this the nine 
years that he was co-pastor, or pastor-emeritus, we have a pastor- 
ate of thirty-nine years, which fact in itself speaks volumes for the 
prudence, wisdom and efficiency of the man as a christian, a 
preacher, and a pastor. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 247 


Our thoughts turn back today to dwell for a brief moment upon 
the life and death of this ambassador of Christ, who spent the 
vigor and strength of his manhood in laboring in this portion of his 
Master’s vineyard; and who, during the evening of his life, in 
counsel and prayer, as an aged father, was with us until the “silver 
cord was loosed, and the golden bowl was broken, and the pitcher 
was broken at the fountain, and the wheel at the cistern;” until the 
old homestead, through infirmity and disease, crumbled down, and 
the spirit went up to the house not made with hands, eternal in the 
heavens. 

His name on earth was not associated “with great hero-deeds, 
or brilliant martial exploits.” He had a better, a far higher voca- 
tion. For almost fifty years he had stood a leader amongst the 
hosts of God’s elect. He had stood, for long years, as a public ser- 
vant, to plead with God for man, and with man for God. He had 
lived, not for self, but for God and his fellow-man. He had spent 
his life in teaching and counselling, in entreating men to be recon- 
ciled to God. 

It was his character and his worth, not his worldly position, 
which gathered that sorrowing crowd on the day of his burial, and 
which occasioned every place of business in the town to close its 
doors, in token of respect for the deceased, as the funeral proces- 
sion passed from the church to the cemetery. 

But Dr. Painter’s labors were not limited to the Kittanning 
church. Concord, Rural Valley, and Crooked Creek churches 
were for a time within his field, making Kittanning the centre. 
His territory would have a radius of from fifteen to twenty miles. 
Eleven Presbyterian churches have since been organized within 
that territory. How much is due to the labors of Dr. Painter for 
the strength of Presbyterianism in this Presbytery today, we may 
not attempt to estimate. The influence of such a man cannot be 
approximated by an estimate of the extent of territory over which 
he labored; as well attempt to measure the wave as you stand upon 
the vessel in mid-ocean. It will roll away far—very far—beyond 
your vision. 

Dr. Painter also possessed the qualities of head and_ heart 
which made him a center of attraction in social life. and yet we 
must not overlook the fact that his social susceptibilities (when we 


248 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


remember the extreme deafness with which he was afflicted during 
so great a part of his life,) instead of being a well-spring of enjoy- 
ment, as they would otherwise have been, have rendered these dis- 
positions a greater source of vexation and desolation than could 
have been felt by an unsocial man. 

Dr. Painter was eminently a man of prayer; much of his time 
was spent in private, in communion with his God. His 
private life beautifully illustrated the excellencies of the religion of 
Jesus Christ. 

But in these courts today, he stands before us as a preacher of 
the word of God—learned, instructive, impressive. His sermons 
were prepared with great care and delivered with great earnestness. 
They were distinguished for clearness of thought, terseness of dic- 
tion, and aptness and frequency of Scripture references. They 
always abounded in clear views of gospel truth, most generally 
doctrinal, but always direct and practical in their application. 

In his devotional exercises in the pulpit, there were always great 
solemnity and fervor, and often his spirit of devotion rose to such 
a degree as to awaken an almost universal response through the 
entire audience. 


On special occasions, the Dr. was often exceedingly happy in 
expression. We all remember, with great pleasure, the part taken 
by him on communion occasions during the closing years of his 
life. His very patriarchial appearance thrilled us with emotion; 
and, as with trembling accents, he led us to the mercy seat in the 
consecration, or closing prayer, and poured forth his soul to God 
in behalf of Zion, and for this branch of it to which he so long 
ministered, and especially for those who had never yet made pro- 
fession of love to Christ, how deeply we all felt that that was the 
earnest, effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man! 


In his address on those occasions, how almost universally he 
dwelt upon the communion of saints, communion with Christ, and 
with all believers; and then his thoughts would rise, and his whole 
soul would pour forth in a description of, and longing for, that 
heavenly communion that he evidently so soon expected to enter 
upon. 

On these occasions he was wont to review briefly the christian 
life, and then, like the apostle Paul, turn his eye to the crown that 
was awaiting him at the hour of his departure. And more than 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 249 


once did he intimate to us that these seasons on earth, to him, 
would soon all be past, but he looked forward and upward with no 
uncertain faith, feeling assured that, if the earthly house of this 
tabernacle were dissolved, he had a building of God, a house not 
made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 

When speaking of the church, at one time, in my presence, with 
deep emotion and great earnestness he exclaimed, in the language 
of the Psalmist: 

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! They shall 
prosper that love thee! Peace be within thy walls; 
and prosperity within thy palaces. For my brethren 
and companions’ sakes, 1 will now say, Peace be with- 
in thee, because of the house of the Lord our God, I 
will seek thy good.” 


During the evening of Dr. Painter’s life—the last ten or twelve 
years—his infirmity, deafness, gradually increased until it almost 
literally severed him from the enjoyment of social life; and yet, 
that was a beautiful twilight—he sank to rest like the King of 
Day, which, from behind the evening shadows, pours forth his 
pure, bright light, illuminating and making even more beautiful 
the horizon. We oft stand entranced with the grandeur of the 
scene. Then we feel, that whilst that sun was setting for us, it was 
rising on other worlds to shine with undimmed splendor. 

It is a special pleasure to me, in this presence today, to recall 
the warm-hearted reception which I received from him as his co- 
pastor; his uniform kindness to me, personally and officially, makes 
this public recognition of it a special privilege, as well as a sacred 
obligation. 

As it was in this church and vicinity that Dr. Painter did his 
life work, it is fitting that this tablet should be erected to his mem- 
ory, and stand in the ages to come a silent but eloquent witness of 
his eminent services in the church of Christ. 


“He Beinc DEAp YET SPEAKETH” 


“Yet speaketh!” For the echo lingers yet 
W here fifty years ago his voice was heard, 
And old men weep, who never can forget 
T heir early gladness through his faithful word, 
O’er all the waves and storms of life between, 
That voice floats on for them still powerful and serene. 


250 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


“Deep teachings from the Word he held so dear, 
Things new and old in that great treasure found; 
A valiant cry, a witness strong and clear, 
A trumpet with no pale, uncertain sound ; 
These shall not die, but live; his rich bequest 
To that beloved church whose servant 1s at rest.” 


Yet we would not overlook the fact that Dr. Painter did not 
accomplish this work lone-handed. His help-meet, Mrs. Painter, 
had a large share in that work. How much of toil and sacrifice 
fell to her lot, we may not know; but we do know that his active 
pastorate here, as well as his declining years, were shared and bless- 
ed with the tender care and undying affection of a most devoted 
wife. 

There was also a noble band of helpers; workers, who from the 
first stood with and around him as Aarons and Hurs; it was with 
their co-operation that these foundations were laid so wisely and 
well. It is deeply interesting today to read the “call” given to 
Dr. Painter by his congregation in November, 1833, and the 
names signed thereto; it reads as follows: 


Rev. JOSEPH PAINTER, 


Dear Sir:—In accordance with the unanimous wish of the 
members of the Presbyterian church here, and of some of the 
prominent citizens of Rural Valley, we invite and solicit you to 
take charge of these two congregations, as stated pastor. And the 
undersigned hereby pledge themselves for the payment to you of 
the sum of $500, annually, for your services while you continue 
pastor of said congregations. We are, rev'd and dear sir, 


Your humble servants, 


Davip JOHNSTON, Sole Elder. 
A. COLWELL, 
SAM’L McKEE 
JOHN GALBRAITH, 
J. E. Brown, 
JOHN R. JOHNSTON, 
CHAMBERS ORR, 
Trustees of the First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 251 


answer from “over the river,’ and yet 
they are 


These—one and all 
to this congregation their names are perfectly familiar 
household names with many of you. 

It is a remarkable fact that the majority of these trustees re- 
mained with this church throughout the active pastorate of Dr. 
Painter. David Johnston—the elder—died in March, 1839; the 
record is: ‘“This church has suffered a great loss in the death of 
David Johnston.” 

Just two years after the organization of this church, a young 
man, who had recently come to Kittanning, cast in his lot with 
this little band of christians—it was Josiah Copley. Early in life, 
as well as in his later years, he loved the church, and all through 
the early history of this one he was active and influential. He 
carried out into wider fields the same devotion and piety he had 
exhibited here. In a ripe old age, with a mind enriched by learn- 
ing and a life beautified by holiness, he passed to his heavenly 
home. 

John Hood was elected to the eldership, June 14, 1839, and 
served in this office until his death, May 23, 1862. He was a good 
man and a faithful officer. His life was consistent and his influ- 
ence was felt all through the community. 








[t would be pleasant and profitable had | the facts, time and 
ability to refer at length to each one of these individually, but that 
cannot be indulged in, in a service such as this. The very men- 
tion of their names calls to the minds of many of you a history 
more or less checkered—a history crowded with recollections of 
struggles and anxieties and labors for this church—a history which 
is intertwined with your home-life as families, your business life 
as a town and community, as well as your church life—a history, 
part of which, doubtless, has its shades and dark spots, regretted 
by none more than by the persons themselves; but, thank God, a 
history very much of which speaks to us today of honest purpose 
and faithful labors and splendid victories for the church they so 
dearly loved. These all being dead, yet speak. 





In April, 1864, | entered with you upon a pastorate of 160% 
years. My work was largely building upon a foundation laid by 
others. It would be a delightful service to me, to call around me 
—in imagination—-today those associated in those years of work 
and worship, to recall the way in which the Master then led us, and 


252 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


the rich blessings He showered upon us; to give and receive the 
greetings and congratulations of those so long and closely joined 
in the Master’s work. But should | today call the roll of those 
workers, 123 of them would answer from beyond the river. 

But the limit of this service must be my plea for not entering 
upon such a history. 

I turn to the call extended to me in April, 1864, and find, that 
the chairman of that meeting was Gen. Robert Orr; the moderator 
of théescall» Prof. Sa)}2-Wilson; DD. Dyethensol thes W esters |heo- 
logical Seminary; the president of the Board of Trustees, James 
FE. Brown; trustees signing that “call’—A. L. Robinson and W. W. 
Hastings. All these have ceased their labors on earth. T. C. 
McCulloch, M. D., of Oil City, J. Alex. Fulton, Dover, Del., John 
A. Colwell are the other trustees signing that call;—the latter,— 
J. A. Colwell—the only one remaining with this church. The 
Session at that time consisted of J. S. Quigley, John Robinson, 
J. B. Finlay, P. K. Bowman and Marcus Hulings. There were 
added to the Session during my pastorate, James Patrick, J. E. 
Brown, «it: Ge Patr,-WoHs Jack Gewe Doverspikes ha esol ave 
maker and James Martin. Of these, John Robinson, James 
Patrick, James E. Brown and Col. J. G. Parr have gone to their 
reward. It seems to me proper that a brief reference be made to- 
day to these officers of this church, whose places here on earth 
know them no more. 





John Robinson—a good man, earnest, devoted, consecrated to 
his Master’s service; and yet so reserved and diffident that the 
duties of his official position were oft a great cross to him, yet with 
great fidelity he so performed them as to secure the confidence of 
the whole congregation; even the most worldly recognized in him 
a good man. 





James Patrick—a man who greatly loved the church of Christ; 
he was ever ready to spend and be spent in the service of his Mas- 
ter, faithful in his official duties, kind and generous to all, specially 
watchful for the spiritual interests of all within his official district, 
and cheerfully attempting every duty assigned him. His life was 
a witness for the truth, his walk and conversation such as to com- 
mend the religion of Jesus Christ. 

Col. J. G. Parr was very valuable as an officer in the church. His 
military training seemed to furnish him the better for a soldier 


to 
WS 
Wd 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


and an officer in the army of the Great Captain of the Lord’s 
hosts, energetic and aggressive yet prudent and wise in action and 
withal a piety which placed everything in the Savior’s hand, as a 
soldier of his country he had offered himself upon her altar; but as 
a soldier of Christ, he had first made the offering entire to Him, so 
that in times of imminent danger during our civil war—when 
called upon to go into battle when death seemed to be almost cer- 
tain, he once said to me “‘that he had been able to commit himself 
to the care of his Savior, and amidst the noise and fury of those 
death-dealing missiles the Savior’s presence was so manifest to 
him that they were the happiest moments of his life. 


We all remember him in the meetings for prayer; with what 
fervency he led us to the mercy-seat and plead as a dying man 
for God’s favor to dying men. In the evening of his life he passed 
under a cloud which saddened, indescribably, all our hearts—the 
result of a wound received in the army, gradually affecting the 
brain and unbalancing the mind; after a short season of darkness 
and suffering he laid down the cross to accept the crown. Over 
that life we may write today “well done, good and faithful soldier 
of the cross.” 


I stop here but a moment to pay a tribute of affection to his 
partner in life—Mrs. Parr—so cheerful and bright, so consecrated 
in heart and life, even the heavy burden of the evening of her 
journey was borne with such cheerful resignation as to place her 
among the heroines of faith, and | know there are many in this 
congregation who gladly join me in paying this tribute to her 
memory. 

James E. Brown was distinguished for punctuality and fidelity 
in the duties pertaining to his official position; one characteristic 
of his life specially impressed me; it was his regularity in attend- 
ance upon church services—at the morning and evening Sabbath 
services, the Sabbath School, the prayer meeting, the session meet- 
ings, you could always count on his being present if at home and 
able to come. His appreciation of sermons was truly remarkable; 
he could always find something good in every sermon; his daugh- 
ter—Mrs. Finlay, once said to me concerning him, humorously, 
but it expressed a beautiful truth—‘‘Father never heard a poor 
sermon.’ He was one of those intelligent christians who came to 
church not to criticise—but to worship. 


254. = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


He was Superintendent of the Sabbath School for nearly 40 
years; he was so familiar with Scripture,—so well grounded in the 
faith—so apt, in communicating his knowledge to others that he 
made a most efficient Superintendent. His time and money were 
elven cheerfully in the building up of this school; and yet he was 
conservative to a fault, as some of us often felt, and | believe, if 
he were living today he would not enter very enthusiastically into 
the erection of such a house of worship as this. 

His habits of economy in his business and home-life had such 
a fast hold upon him that he oft carried them into his church 
work; his prominence in the church and community gave him very. 
great influence. 

We all remember one fact very distinctly—that at one time 
when we wanted to build a new church, we could not get our 
hands into his pockets to the depth we desired, we all knew just 
what he ought to give—we always know what the other man 
ought to do—but to secure it was a problem we never could solve, 
and yet as we came to know more and more of his gifts to the 
cause of Christ of his kind and sympathetic ministrations to the 
poor and suffering, we learned to appreciate more highly the man 
and his long. faithful service for this church. His deep interest in 
the Sabbath School; his many years of faithful labors therein; his 
earnest prayers and tears and gifts, give him a large share in the 
service of this day. 

Of the trustees, in the early history of this church, the names 
of Alex. Colwell, Chambers Orr and James McCullough occur 
more frequently than any others; untiring in their labors, often in 
the midst. sof veryesreat discouragements:«) 1 steele suremniianon: 
Painter had been called upon to name the men from his Board of 
Trustees upon whom he relied the most, he would have named 
Alex. Colwell, Chambers Orr and James McCullough. 

Of the trustees of my pastorate who have passed from earth, 
the name of Gen. Robert Orr stands first. He was quite aged 
when | came to this church, but the universal testimony from this 
town and community where he had passed his whole life was all 
that could be desired; his very presence spoke of a kind and gen- 
erous nature; so thoughtful of others, so forgetful of self. He lived 
to a good old age and died dearly loved by those who knew him 


to 
NS a 
SN 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


best and highly respected by the whole town and community. Of 
Mrs. Gen. Orr it may well be said that no more intelligent christian 
can be found upon the roll of this church. Her accurate acquaint- 
ance with history, especially church history, made her an able de- 
fender of “the faith once delivered to the saints.” She possessed 
an exceptionally brilliant mind, consecrated with all its -acquire- 
ments to Christ and His church. 


A. L. Robinson, as one of the fathers who has passed to his rest, 
comes before us 1n memory today, with marked prominence. 
Many long years of service he gave to this church, in many posi- 
tions, but specially as a teacher and leader in sacred music is he 
remembered by us today! His whole soul oft seemed enraptured 
in the songs of Zion; most devoutly did he worship in song, as in 
prayer; he was an enthusiast in music—an intelligent, devout en- 
thusiasm which found its best expression in those grand anthems 
of praise to God which lifted the people into communion with the 
Highest, and prepared all hearts the better for the enjoyment of 
other parts of the worship of God. His was a musical talent, culti- 
vated and consecrated to the Master. 


W. W. Hastings is the last of the officers who signed my call— 
a devoted christian, with no confidence whatever in self; but a 
man whose christianity, every one who knew him had perfect confi- 
dence in. He was one of those quiet, retired christians whose 
sweet home-life goes out into the community as a constant bene- 
diction. Of Mrs. Hastings it may be said she lived for her family 
and her church; deeply anxious for the spiritual welfare of all 
around her. To her the house of God was the very gate of heaven. 

Albert Robinson was the youngest member of the Board of 
Trustees, yet one of the most efficient. So active and energetic and 
kind and popular, that we may not attempt to measure his useful- 
ness by the length of the service. His early death was to me and 
to many others in this church, one of the most mysterious. He 
was a good young man and a universal favorite. 


Judge J. V. Painter was one who gave largely and willingly of 
his time and means to the church. In his last years he was greatly 
absorbed in the desire for a new church building, and could he 
have been present today, no one in this vast audience would have 
been more delighted. As we call to mind the tempest of affliction 
through which he and his dear family passed in 1875 and again in 


250 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


1880, we willingly accord to them a large place in this memorial 
service. 


Thos. McConnell, Sr., was one of our most highly esteemed 
members during my pastorate. For a brief time Superintendent 
and for many years a successful teacher in the Sabbath School, 
also a most efficient trustee. 


This church showed its confidence in him as a wise and good 
man by electing him almost unanimously to the office of ruling 
elder, in the year 1877. But he had so little confidence in self that 
he declined to accept. I shall never forget the interview I had 
with him in my study, on the subject of accepting this office. I had 
striven to set before him that it was his duty and privilege to 
accept. When | ceased talking, he burst into tears and cried out 
with all the emphasis of his passionate nature, ““O, | cannot, Mr. 
Ewing, | cannot!” I had nothing more to say, save to express 
my regret at his decision, but I felt that, as a good man, he had 
prayerfully made up his mind that he could not accept the office. 
He continued a faithful worker in this church as long as his health 
and strength permitted him so to do. 


One other trustee must be added to this official death roll, 
Benjamin F. Luker. His recent death makes any lengthy notice in 
this presence unnecessary. But his conversion and christian life 
come to me today with special distinctness. He was among the 
first in that gracious revival of 1876 to hear and accept the Mas- 
ter’s invitation, “Follow me,” and his whole after-life was a 
beautiful illustration of the sincerity and correctness of that pro- 
fession. 

I turn aside here to pay a tribute of affection to one whom we 
all delighted to honor—Mrs. Alex. Colwell, one of the early mem- 
bers of this church; a character so kind and generous; so thought- 
ful and anxious as to the welfare of others; open-hearted and 
open-handed to the poor and needy; liberal in her contributions to 
every good cause; a model wife and mother, and although called 
to pass through afflictive scenes of unusual severity, her faith ever 
remained steadfast in the goodness and love of her Saviour. To 
her the church was dear as life itself, and whenever physical 
strength permitted she was present to enjoy its services. Her 
memory today is blessed. 

The words of Solomon may most truthfully be applied to her, 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 257 


“She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; she reacheth forth her 
hands to the needy.”” “She openeth her mouth with wisdom and 
in her tongue is the law of kindness; her children rise up and call 
her blessed.” Today, in this tribute of affection, we “give her of 
the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the 
gates.” 7 

Of the many more who might justly claim a place in our 
memories today, | must be content in this connection to mention 
but one more—Mrs. Jane Reynolds—the first name on the roll 
when I| became pastor, and who lived with you to such a good old 
age, and so recently passed to her rest; a member of this church for 
64 years, 7 months and 17 days. To many here, the very men- 
tion of her name brings sacred recollections and hallowed mem- 
ories. For long years she lingered in the shades of the evening, 
waiting the Master’s coming; but her patient resignation and sweet 
confidence in God as her rock and her salvation were a living and 
eloquent sermon to all. 

The “Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society” deserves a promi- 
nent place in this service. The Society has been noticed in its 
good work in the “Retrospect”? on last Sabbath; but I turn to it 
again because it has its share in this memorial service. Some of 
its faithful officers are on the roll of those who have entered into 
Life. I name them in the order of their departure: Mrs. Lydia 
Bowman Davis, Miss Fannie E. Orr, Mrs. Anna G. Ewing, Mrs. 
Margaret Phillips Mayers, Mrs. H. H. Calhoun. Miss Emma 
Rumbaugh, and Mrs. Margaret Quigley. No words of mine can 
adequately present the preciousness and sacredness of the memor- 
ies which cluster around these names in this congregation; their 
lives filled full of those works of charity and love which leave a 
fragrance ever present as a constant incense upon God’s altar. In 
these lives are associations so sacred to many of us that we must 
pass them almost in silence; for we feel that the ground upon 
which we tread is holy. Blessed, thrice blessed, the Society which 
has such an inheritance, as a continual entreaty to, and inspira- 
tion for, a beautiful, faithful and fruitful life. 


I cannot turn from the history of this Society without a fur= 
ther brief reference to one whose intelligence and_ refinement, 
whose prayers and sacrifices, whose loving ministrations and gen- 
erous gifts, whose liberal response to every call of the Master, has 


258 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


enshrined her name in the hearts of so many in this church, where 
it will be held in everlasting remembrance; that name is Mrs. H. 
H. Calhoun. 

| have limited myself today, almost wholly, to those who have 
held official position in this church. There are many others 
equally worthy of our thought, but to individualize fully would re- 
quire a volume, rather than a sermon. 

There comes before me today a great multitude of the depart- 
ed; truly a cloud of witnesses seem to hover over us. I remember 
them well in the old church—as little children in the Sabbath 
School, as young men and women in the social circle, as middle- 
aged—cumbered and anxious with the cares and business life—as 
aged and infirm,—waiting in the shades of the evening the Master’s 
coming. I recall them, as if but yesterday, when they sat in my 
presence in the old church, while I tried to open to them the sacred 
scriptures. | can almost go from pew to pew to bid them welcome. 
But the Master came again and again, continually calling to Him- 
self one and another, and still another. Now it was one in early 
life, full of bright hopes and beautiful prospects for this world; 
again it was one in the midst of the life work, full of plans and 
purposes for long years to come; and anon it was an aged one 
waiting in the evening’s twilight. 

There was no respect of persons; and now as | return after an 
absence of almost ten years | find that forty-two more of those to 
whom I ministered have departed this life. Oh, what a company 
from this church in these years of history have passed to the 
church triumphant. How near we seem to be to that land of rest! 
How closely united is the church militant to the church trium- 
phant! 


But to what good this service today? The apostle Paul called 
that roll of honor of those Hebrew saints for a grand and noble 
purpose. He would bring his hearers into the very presence of 
those splendid triumphs of faith, which illuminated the history of 
the church from the death of the righteous Abel to the last of the 
prophets, that they might see and know that fazth is the substance 
of things hoped for and the evidence of the unseen. 

He would open, as it were, the gates of the city, which hath 
foundations, whose maker and builder is God, and point to the 
cloud of witnesses that compass the christian in his warfare as if 
to say: see yonder, in the city of God those who lived before you 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 259 


and with you, who struggled so valiantly, fought so bravely, and 
conquered so splendidly in the battle of this life; see them now in 
the presence of the King—there is fullness of joy and _ pleasures 
that are for evermore; hear them join in the anthem of praise to 
God who hath redeemed them and given them the victory, saying, 
“Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and 
might be unto our God for ever and ever.” 

Let. the scene strengthen the weak, confirm the wavering and 
inspire all with implicit confidence so as to cheerfully cast aside 
every weight and run with patience the race, looking unto Jesus 
who is there seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Thus the apostle would make heaven a glorious reality, already 
in full view and to be possessed at the end of the race. 

| repeat, then, to what good this roll-call today? Why enter 
this new church to call before us the many christian heroes and 
heroines, once of our number, who have died in the faith? What 
lessons come to us from this tablet and these memorial windows, 
and the memories of the many who have mingled with us in our 
work and worship in the past, but who are now mingling with the 
worshippers who wait before the King in His glory? 

Could I, for a brief moment, lift the veil that conceals from us 
yonder world of light and love, and speak to those fathers 
and mothers and loved ones who have gone to the “home over 
there,’ what word of warning or of cheer and inspiration have 
they for you as you enter this new house of worship? 


First—Is there not a most impressive lesson as to the brevity 
and uncertainty of this earthly lifer Why, it seems but yesterday 
since they were all here with us; we almost refuse to believe that 
they will not return to us; years seem days in the review, and yet 
it is forced upon us that they come not again into these scenes of 
earth. Their work is finished; their race is run; it was but a few 
years, but, oh, the value of those years! the preciousness of those 
hours lived here! how brief their day in which to complete life’s 
work and prepare for eternity’s mission. “God make me to know 
mine end and the measure of my days; what it is that | may know 
how frail | am.” “Behold, thou hast made my days as an hand- 
breadth and mine age as nothing before Thee.” 


Second—And then as to the uncertainty of human life. How 
oft these loved ones were taken most unexpectedly! It was not al- 


200 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ways the aged who were waiting and expecting the Master’s call; 
it was often the young, in full possession of their strength and 
vigor, who looked forward to many years of a happy, useful life; 
those upon whom fond parents leaned, expecting the evening of 
their lives to be cheered by their presence and care; again, it was 
those burdened with care and weighted with responsibility, 
with minds full of plans scarcely matured and hands full of work 
half completed; but the Master’s call came suddenly, and then 
the expectation was cut short and the half finished work was left 
for others. Oh, as we call to mind these instances all along the 
history of this church, we can but exclaim, oh, the uncertainty, as 
well as the brevity, of human. life! How startling the voice from 
these memories today! Time so short, eternity so long; time so 
uncertain, but death and the future so real. ‘“Whatsoever thy 
hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” 


Third—Here also is a beautiful lesson on the unity, the one- 
ness, of the church of Christ; let us learn it well, one church of the 
living God. There is but one Shepherd, and there shall be but 
one fold! 

We have spoken of these years as years of sowing, but they 
have also been years of reaping; not alone to the church militant 
but to the church triumphant. Here midst these surroundings we 
can understand that it is but the one church; the great Shepherd 
is there gathering home His flock. 

What a scene is this that meets us! We are permitted to look 
upon the whole church of God as one family, gathered from this 
wilderness and translated to the Canaan above. The Master has 
gone to prepare a place, but ere He departed He sent forth His 
servants with the full, free gospel invitation; the Comforter—the 
Holy Ghost—was sent to accompany the message, to convince 
and convert, to lead into the church and into the family of God 
upon earth; there to sanctify and make meet for the inheritance. 
At the same time, the Saviour 1s before the Father’s throne plead- 
ing his own merits on their behalf. Thus the gathering from the 
world into the-church has been going on ever since this church 
had an organization. Here the Holy Spirit gathered them; one 
by one they came; anon, scores crowded these temple gates; but at 
the same time, and as the complement of this ingathering on earth, 
the Saviour was gathering them home, one by one, to the fold 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 261 


above. Here they tarried but for a little time—just long enough 
to put on the wedding garment, that thoroughly furnished them for 
sitting at the marriage supper of the Lamb. They waited here 
just while the Master had something for them to do, or to suffer 
for him, then He bade them come up higher. 

So the gathering into the church militant and the church 
triumphant are but different parts of the same glorious plan of re- 
demption. In the former | hear the gospel trumpet heralding the 
invitations of a full free salvation to every creature; the mes- 
sengers are entreating and beseeching and warning by all the 
terrors of Sinai, and anon, by all the pleadings of Calvary. In the 
latter, | hear the sweet strains of the Saviour’s voice interceding 
with the Father, “Father, | will that those whom thou hast given 
me be with me where I am to behold my glory,’ and then, me- 
thinks, I see a multitude of saved souls coming up into that city 
and walking in “the light of the glory of God and of the Lamb 
which is in the light of it.’ Then I know that the church is one, 
and that these loved ones who have gone from us are there wait- 
ing our coming. A few years past and they were with us here; a 
few years more and we shall be with them there. So the separa- 
tion is not wide and it cannot be long. 

May these lives that have in so many cases been lived so 
beautifully and grandly before us and with us, evermore be an 1n- 
spiration to us in the christian life; they speak of the brevity and 
uncertainty of human life, but they also speak eloquently of the 
unity of the church of Christ and of the certainty of the mansion 
prepared and the rest remaining for the people of God. 

Then, beloved, lift up the head, banish doubts and fears, run 
cheerfully the christian race; you are compassed with a cloud of 
witnesses all waiting for you. The city of the new Jerusalem is 
almost in sight; a little longer and the river will be crossed and the 
inheritance possessed, and we shall join with the loved ones who 
have gone before in giving all the praise of our salvation to Him 
who hath loved us and redeemed us with His own blood and made 
us unto our God kings and priests. Then shall we cast our crowns 
at His feet and all join in ascribing to Him, “Blessing and honor 
and glory and power forever and ever.”’ 


262. ~—-History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


EVENING SERVICE 


EIGHT O’cLtock P. M. 


ADDR ESSESSB YeRES DEN Te PAS TOK: 


REVa'Re-G. bOWEING. 
St. Luke’s Reformed Church 


It affords me great pleasure, to participate in the exercises and 
services of this evening. This is a good meeting; it 1s held in an 
elegant place; and has for its object, that which is praiseworthy. 

My friends, tonight we rejoice with the members of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, in their successful completion 
of a great work. 

Personally, I extend to the Pastor and members of this church, 
my heartfelt congratulation. You have done well, nobly, and as 
it has been laid upon me, to introduce the addresses of the evening, 
I regard it as fitting, that I express, what I take to be the common 
sentiment of my brethren, pastors of the various churches of the 
town: viz. that we unite in one general expression of congratula- 
tion. Furthermore, this immense audience has a significance be- 
yond mere curiosity. [ look upon this attentive audience, as a 
silent expression of good, and whole-soul fellow-feeling. Is it not 
therefore entirely correct, to affirm, that criticism, prejudice and 
jealousy; or even denominational preferences and convictions, 
however orthodox they may be, have no place here, on this oc- 
casion? We are glad; we are all glad, that the church of Christ 
is advancing. This temple reflects honor on the cause. Even 
unbelievers admire this structure; they are proud of it; regard it 
as an ornament to the town. Surely then, the children of the 
Covenant must regard this new church edifice, as the fruit of faith, 
labor, self-denial and love; and therefore it 1s something, for all 
“who bear the christian name,” to rejoice in most heartily. 

My remarks are tending in the direction of a subject of vast 
importance to the church, so | will just continue. This meeting 
is of value to you, to me, to all of us. It is of value to the cause 
we represent. How wisely we talk and theorize, about church 
unions, church unity, organic unity, or federal union of churches; 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 263 


and how often it ends with the theory. Our meeting tonight has 
a meaning in it, that ought not to be overlooked. If, 1n the Provi- 
dence of God, our denominations are ever to become one in form, 
really, literally one, it will not result from plans or theories formu- 
lated, and then presented for adoption. On the contrary, it will 
grow in the heart and soul; as a natural result of association, 
mingling and comingling with each other. Rejoice. 


Co-operative union 1s a possibility of the present. While union 
in external form, is but a probability of the far future, external 
forms are not the author’s life or spirit. Spiritual energy is need- 
ed. The work of Christ: the saving of souls; binds, or ought to 
bind us together now as one. See the results of co-operative union. 
Tonight the Christianity of Kittanning, presents a united front to 
the “Prince of darkness.” Such a gathering as this, 1s enough to 
make the hosts of sin tremble. We are conscious of power, and 
evil recognizes it. Were it but possible, that the sentiments of this 
Occasion would stay with us: then our churches, in their separate 
and individual relations, might hope to accomplish much greater 
things in the future, than in the past. 


While there may be some forcible arguments against union 
meetings, such as from year to year have been held in the Opera 
House of this place: yet the fact that there we mingled together 
with other christian people, exchanged ideas, pursued plans to- 
gether, and above all, did heart and soul work together, has a force 
and meaning for us. By these associations our zeal is fanned into 
flame: we catch enthusiasm, are encouraged, and naturally grow 
better and wiser. And what of the world, sin, and the sinner?’ 


The truth is driven home, viz: that the professed brotherhood 
of christians 1s not a hopeless ideal, but that it is an actual, verit- 
able fact. Such meetings as this tonight, are epochs in the history 
of the church of Christ. 


In our times, bigotry is disappearing, churches are not so nar- 
row as formerly. Within the memory of many in this audience, 
there was a time, when such a meeting and such interest would 
have been regarded as unprofitable, or inexpedient, or possibly 
even hazardous. We are growing broader in our religious views: 
nor have we sacrificed a single doctrine of the common. faith. 
“One in faith, one in hope, one in charity” makes us truly one. 
There are no differences so great; but that true christian love, faith 


204 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


and worship can bridge them over, for the sake of Christ and His 
cause, against the host of sin. 

Hence, brethren of this church, we regard your success as a 
success for us. We share your joys tonight, we trust, in a man- 
ner most complimentary to you: and most reverential and full of 
praise to God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Ghost. 


REVsHo WeEESON 


St. John’s Lutheran Church 


| am impressed with a feeling of joy and solemnity whenever | 
witness the consecration of a christian church to the service of 
God. Never were there bolder words uttered by a sane man 
than were the words of Jesus of Nazareth, when He said He would 
found a church on this earth which would endure to the latest ages, 
and which the ravages of time could never efface. Kings and 
princes with their systems of government pass from the earth like 
the flower of the grass; kingdoms and empires and nations rise 
and fall like bubbles on the surface of the water; systems of philo- 
sophy and creeds and theories come and go as clouds across a 
summer sky, but the religion of Jesus cannot die, because it 1s 
founded upon the words of eternal truth. The heavens and the 
earth will pass away, but His words cannot pass away. 

Soon after the ascension of our Lord, the infant church began 
to spread from Jerusalem as a center to the utmost bounds of 
Judea and Samaria. But it did not stop here; God meant to offer 
salvation to the Gentiles as well as to the Jews, and but a few years 
elapsed till the Word was preached in Syria and Asia Minor. 
Within the life-time of the Apostles the gospel of Christ had pene- 
trated to the very heart of the Roman Empire. So great were 
the trials and perils of the christians during the first three cen- 
turies that any one, judging from a human standpoint, must cer- 
tainly have predicted that the new religion could not survive. 
But, marvelous as 1t may seem, before the third century had ex- 
pired the mighty Roman Empire cast away her false Mythology, 
and embraced the religion of Jesus, the Nazarene Prophet who had 
died like a criminal, and had committed his tenets to a few un- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 265 


known and unlearned fishermen and taxgatherers. What a won- 
derful revolution! Has the world before or since witnessed any- 
thing like that? And all from so humble a beginning—without 
violence and without bloodshed? Man could not have done it; it 
vas God’s Word, that potent Word that created the worlds, and 
holds them in their courses through space. Thus the secret of the 
vitality in christianity is the fact that it receives its strength 
from above; men are but human agents employed by the Holy 
Spirit. This work of christianizing the world still goes one. It 
did not stop with the conversion of Rome. One by one the bar- 
barous tribes of the North were brought under the influence of the 
Gospel, and the changes wrought in their family and political life 
were little short of the marvelous. The barbarous Germanic 
nations, the kingdom of the Franks, the British Isles were all 
brought to a knowledge of the religion ef Christ. Ethiopia has 
stretched forth her hands unto God. 

And now, in these last times, that glorious Gospel has come 
across the sea, and has transformed this great land of ours, which 
was occupied by savages, godless tribes, to a land of churches, 
schools and colleges, a land whose government is interwoven with 
the principles and precepts of christianity. 

What christian does not rejoice in the fact that hundreds, yea, 
thousands of new churches are dedicated to God every year? | 
heartily congratulate the pastor and people of this congregation 
on the completion, after long and faithful work, and consecration 
of this noble structure. May peace be within thy walls; may the 
true spirit of Christ ever reign here. | congratulate you, not 
simply as a citizen of Kittanning, not simply as a friend of the 
Presbyterian Church, but especially as a fellow-laborer in the same 
glorious cause, the upbuilding of the kingdom of Christ. 


Ras Ves i aie SETS 


St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 


In rising to express my congratulations to pastor and people 
On sO auspicious an occasion as the opening of this magnificent 
temple for the worship of God, | do not forget that | speak not as 
an individual, bearing only personal good will and _ fraternal 


206 ~—- History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


greetings, but as a representative of the members of my Church. 
For them as well as for myself | extend to you, Mr. Pastor, and to 
your splendidly faithful, energetic and self-sacrificing people, sin- 
cere and warm-hearted rejoicing at the noble success which has 
crowned your efforts. | speak also for my Church, the old Mother 
Church of millions who speak the English tongue. Because of 
her holy pleasure in seeing the cause of Christ triumphing among 
men—she with her Liturgy of the ages and her head crowned with 
historic glory, the Episcopal Church, extends to a great and 
erandly achieving sister, the Presbyterian, her good will and God- 
speed. I know that it has not been without self-denial that such 
a work has been accomplished, and | learn with gladness that there 
is still among men a faith sufficiently strong and a generosity suf- 
ficiently large to pour out its treasures for the greater glory of 
God and the higher good of men. To you it has been given to 
labor and to pray; to sow and to water and to wait with patience, 
yet not without hope, because of the steadfast purpose in your 
hearts, until God has given you the increase, and has fulfilled for 
you the high desire which your souls have cherished. The gifts, 
many of them wrung from the daily necessities, whether small or 
great,—as each one had the ability—have been blessed of Him who 
ever loveth a cheerful giver, and it is to be said of you as 1t was 
said of them of old time, that the people offered willingly of their 
substance unto the Lord. Such a work as this Church represents 
is cheering to all christians. It shows us what willing hands and 
hearts can do when facing out towards one great and worthy pur- 
pose and it evidences a love of Christ’s religion that augurs well 
for its final triumph over the world. Were such zeal and such 
activity to characterize all who name the sacred name, the closing 
years of this nineteenth» century would not pass without the 
coming of that glad time when the “knowledge of the Lord should 
cover the earth as the waters cover the sea,’ for earth’s remotest 
nation shall have learned to love the blessed name of Jesus. 

We congratulate you, brethren: We admire your splendid 
achievement, but more than this, we thank you for the good ex- 
ample you have set and the noble lesson you have taught us. The 
earnest and faithful labor of your pastor and the hearty response 
of your people are worthy of the fullest meed of human praise, and 
they must meet with the benediction of the great Father of us all. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 26/7 


We are glad with you in what you have done and we rejoice to 
think that the added responsibilities and wider opportunities will 
be borne and utilized in the future with the same zeal and faithful 
earnestness which have marked you in the past. 


REV. DAVID McCAW, 
United Presbyterian Church 


When speaking of the church, the inspired writer says, “God 1s 
in the midst of her; she shall not be moved.’ And this, my 
friends, is the secret of the power and stability of this institution 
established by the God of all the earth. Though the fires of perse- 
cution have encompassed her, though seas of trouble have swept 
over her, and though mountains of difficulties have hedged her 
way—yet she has prospered, for “God is in the midst of her.” 

In this period of the world’s history, when vice 1s so often seen 
in “high places,’ and virtue cast down and despised; when our 
daily papers are little more than catalogues of crime, we are in- 
clined to grow despondent and to view both the world and the 
church from a pessimistic standpoint. If we are careful in our 
examinations, and not too hasty in our conclusions, we will find 
that God is still in the midst of His church, and nothing shall 
move her. At one time, the prophet Elijah declared that all of 
Jehovah’s prophets were slain and his altars thrown down and that 
he alone was left. But God said there were seven thousand in 
Israel who had not bowed the knee to Baal. 

There have been times in the past when it seemed as though 
the powers of men and of demons were directed against the 
church. All that malice could devise, or earthly power effect was 
done to destroy her. On the great battlefields of the Reformation, 
in England, Ireland, Scotland, France and Germany, the sword of 
persecution was dyed red with the life-blood of those loyal sons 
and daughters of the Lord God. With what results? The church 
came through these fiery trials as gold out of a refiner’s fire— 
purer and stronger. “God was in the midst of her,” and he helped 
her. 

But what is the condition of the church todayr It was never 
better. Never before were there so many talented, consecrated 


208 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 





men and women willing to spend their lives, their means, their all 
in obeying the command of the Master, “Go ye into all the world 
and preach the gospel to every creature.” Never before were 
there so many ways open to receive the ambassadors of the King of 
Heaven. Never before was there so much money laid on the 
Lord’s altar to carry on the work at home and abroad. This mag- 
nificent building, today dedicated to Almighty God, may be taken 
as an illustration of the condition of the church at large. 

May God dwell in this house and in the heart of every member 
of this congregation. May He richly reward your christian lib- 
erality. 

But what of the future of Zion? I take the lamp of revelation 
—which is the word of God—and I look into the future. Satan 
is marshalling his hosts and concentrating his power against the 
church, but she stands unmoved, for God dwells in the midst of 
her. Look again, Satan’s power is broken, he is bound and his 
forces scattered. The glory of the Lord is filling the whole earth. 
The watchmen on the walls of Zion are of one mind. Sectarian- 
ism is a relic of the days of darkness, ignorance and superstition. 
God’s will is done on earth as it is in heaven. 

Brethren, that day is coming. May God hasten it in His own 
time and way. ; 


REV HARPER SING: 


Methodist Episcopal Church 


On last Sabbath, two sermons were preached in the old Pres- 
byterian Church, of this place. One of them by the Rev. Dr. 
Ewing, subject, “Retrospect”; the other, by Rev. Bro. Mayers, 
subject, “Prospect”. What an extensive field each one had to 
travel over. I had not the pleasure of hearing them; yet, they 
should hardly be granted forgiveness by the good brethren, if 
they failed to preach good sermons on that day, under those 
~ circumstances, and with these grand, thoughtful subjects. 

No doubt, the good Doctor presented before his large con- 
gregation, on that day, a wonderful picture—a real one, too— 
as he reviewed and called up reminiscences of the past; for the 
old weather-beaten church, in which thousands have worshiped 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 2609 


God and from which khuiidreds have gone home to glory, has had 
a wonderful history—a history which, if written out in full, would 
speak of many victories and triumphs, as well as dark days and 
heavy trials. 

But, I like Bro. Mayers’ subject, “Prospect”, better. I love to 
look forward. There is much behind, but more in front; and we 
are ‘to forget those things which are behind, and reach forth unto 
those things which are before.” There are greater victories and 
joys yet before you, and I bid you God-speed as you go forward 
in order to attain. May an ambition to excel in Chnist-like 
work permeate all hearts and move all hands! 





| rejoice with you tonight, as | come bringing kind greetings 
from my own people, in the inception, progress and completion of 
this beautiful structure now dedicated to God. I rejoice, because 
| have a right to do so. This church belongs to God and our com- 
mon christianity; hence, it belongs in part to me and to every 
follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. I always feel glad when | see 
new and beautiful churches erected, no difference what denomi- 
nation they belong to. A fine structure, well kept, with a beauti- 
ful yard, filled with flowers and artistic skill, speaks loudly for 
God and helps men. I[ never listen to those who say that our 
churches are too fine and costly. If the General Government 
erects magnificent buildings, 1f each State has its fine capitol, post- 
offices and penitentiaries, 1f each county builds grand court houses 
and jails, if many of our own dwellings are almost palatial, should 
not God’s house be grand and beautiful? It is here that we wor- 
ship Him who has said, “I will make the place of my feet glorious.” 


Let us take a glance into the future. A hundred years from 
now—1890 to 1990, only the change of one figure in these numerals 
—this church building will still be standing, a monument for 
God, though three generations will have passed away. What will 
then have taken placer Suppose you have an average addition 
of twenty-five each year. Then, twenty-five hundred men and 
women will have been received into the church, of whom the 
ereater part will go out into the world to be centers of light in 
other places. Twenty-five hundred more children will have come 
into your Sunday School to be taught of the Lord, and then take 
the place of the fathers and mothers gone to their reward. 
Twenty-five hundred more will be dedicated to God in Holy Bap- 


270 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


tism. For four hundred times this large multitude will partake 
of the Sacrament, eat of the bread, drink of the wine in memory of 
a suffering Christ. For five thousand times they will meet to- 
gether in the prayer service, to praise God’s name and call upon 
Him in prayer. For ten thousand times they will hear the pastor 
preach, declaring unto them the words of eternal life. For 
twenty-five hundred times this bell will toll, as one by one this 
number falls by the way; and twenty-five hundred times the angels 
will rejoice, as glad, ransomed souls enter heaven, to be forever 
with the Lord. 

| love the Presbyterian Church as I do every other branch of 
Christ’s fold; and, whilst the M. E. Church is the church of my 
choice, possibly so, because reared within her fold; and, whilst be- 
ing in her ministry for twenty-five years, yet no man has ever 
heard me speak in public a disparaging word concerning the doc- 
trines and polity of any denomination. Out of a true heart [ can 
say, “Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in 
sincerity.” 

Shall there be a union of all the different denominations? I 
think not. It is not even desirable. Yet I think a limit has been 
reached, and to our large number of denominations, no more will 
be added. Union is becoming the order of the day. A hundred 
years from now there will be fewer denominations. | see room in 
this country for three Protestant denominations, growing out of 
the three forms of church government, the Episcopal, Presbyterian 
and Congregational. 

Dear friends, may the Lord bless you, grant you prosperity in 
the future as in the past, and then, heaven, as your eternal reward. 


REV ao es ECE LAIN Dy 


Second Presbyterian Church 


Humanity has ever breathed the air of immortality. The hope 
of a higher life beyond the doom of death has inspired the achive- 
ments and shaped the destiny of men and nations. Never has man 
been so deeply enshrouded in the darkness of sin and superstition 
that the light of immortality has failed to fall on the human soul, 
waking the dormant desire for a nobler existence. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 27\ 


The Egyptian wove the fair immortelle in the mummy cloth of 
his dead brother, the earnest of a more glorious life in the great 
beyond. 

The Persian fed the fires of the sacred altar day and night, lest 
the spark of eternal life might be quenched in his own hopeful 
breast, and in the silent midnight hour the mystic priests of the 
Ganges set their lighted lamps afloat on the dark bosom of the 
waters 1n hope to illumine that great unknown sea which leads the 
soul to brighter shores beyond. 

For forty centuries the smoke of the Jewish altar rose in con- 
stant memory of a broken law and for the sins of the people a con- 
secrated priesthood ministered within the veil. 

From these who have lived before us, we are not different 
The darkness and supersition of an ignorant age is dispelled, but 
the same hopes and aspirations are ours, the same great questions 
to ask, the same problems to solve, the same life to live, the same 
death to die. The same question is asked through all these cen- 
turies, “If a man die, shall he live again?” but to us is given the 
celestial joy of hearing its answer from the skies, “I am the resur- 
rection and the life.” 

Mortality hears the divine echo of its fondest hope: “This 
corruptible must put on incorruption and this mortal must put on 
immortality.” 

The light of a new era dawns on a disheartened world, the hope 
of humanity is made sure in the Redeemer of the race. 


The flood carried out to the eternal sea the melancholy history 
of human failures—the tide of christianity bears on its crested 
wave the lasting achievements of a new born hope. 

The moral and material progress of 1800 years has its soul and 
center in the religion of Jesus Christ. Our higher civilization 1s 
but the legitimate fruit of a moral regeneration under the benign 
influence of the light and power of the gospel. In the very midst 
of mighty forces we live and witness the coming of the kingdom. 
Let us thank God for our life and times, and with renewed effort 
hasten his coming in glory. 

May this beautiful creation of your own hands never reproach 
you as the massive mausoleum of your dead selves, but as the fit 
place of the abiding presence of the Most High may you here, 


DZ. History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


pastor and people, find that invigoration of the soul’s largest hope 
that will make your service the earnest of that glorified throng 
gathered in the grander courts of that building of God, not made 
with hands, eternal in the heavens. 


REV. J. J. WAGONER, 


Methodist Protestant Church 


Variety 1s said to be the spice of life. Surely, this adage would 
apply to this vast audience and impressive service. Here 
Episcopalian, Presbyterian, Lutheran, Reformed and Methodists 
all meet with their shade of differences in church polity and doc- 
trine to bid each other God speed in the great work of evangeliza- 
tion. Why I am placed at the foot of this vast array of divinity, 
| can not understand, as the best of the wine is always kept until 
the end of the feast, but we will have to submit to the powers that 
be. The question uppermost in my mind is: What shall this 
babbler say? 

There are many subjects worthy our consideration and many 
questions that are solvable, while there are some that cannot be 
understood in this present state of being, with our undeveloped 
powers. One of the great questions of the nineteenth century is 
the growth and development of the christian church. There are 
some that would tell us, and try to make us believe, that the 
church is losing ground. If those persons would only use their 
eyes and their ears, they would be ashamed to make such state- 
ments. The cry comes to the church, “Come over and help us.” 
The fields are white for the harvest, but the laborers are few. The 
demand is, more ministers, and they are preparing themselves for 
the great work of disseminating the gospel. [he demand is for more 
churches, and they are being built. Here we see the falsity of the 
statement in the erection and completion of this magnificent temple 
of worship. Doubtless, you, as a church, rejoice in your grand 
achievements. You have great reason to rejoice, and we come to 
rejoice with you. No doubt your minds revert to your humble 
beginning as a church. Many scenes of the past are revived in 
your memories. The memorial service this afternoon was an im- 
pressive service, and doubtless called to mind those dark clouds, 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning agp’ 


then the parting of the clouds, and the sunshine. May your 
present success be but the beginning of a greater success in win- 
ning souls to Christ, and like the sun shine more and more unto 
the perfect day. May peace and prosperity ever dwell within 
these walls, and you, as a church, be gathered into the church 
triumphant and be united with that grand company that have 
gone on before. 


BENEDICTION 


In 1905 it was “discovered” that our church, which was con- 
sidered almost perfect, was not adequate to the growing demands 
made upon it so a complete upheaval was in order. There was no 
cellar except a small place for the furnace so an excavation was 
made under the chapel wing in which a dining room, kitchen and 
rest rooms were fitted up. A larger organ was purchased and a 
new carpet laid in the auditorium. These improvements were 
fine but cost considerable money. The Trustees were authorized 
to assume the debt but were willing to let the Woman’s Union raise 
the funds to pay it, which that society would have done promptly, 
if it had not been for the fire. 

Mrs. George Crawford and Mrs. Wm. Pollock had charge of 
this repair work which was done under appointment of the trus- 
tees and with their approval. 

The original debt on the church was paid in 1901. The second 
one in 1909. 


FROM WOMAN’S EDITION OF KITTANNING TIMES 


The New Church 


“On the corner of Arch and Jefferson Streets, Kittanning, it 
stands in all its beauty of proportions and grace of outline, a 
lovely temple of stone, a monument to the faithfulness of liberal- 
ity, zeal, and energy of those who built it. The chaste and simple 
dignity and beauty of the interior are all in keeping with the 
external grace anda harmony.” 

So wrote a reporter for a Pittsburgh paper and no product of 


274 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


my brain or pen could describe it half so well. The structure 1s 
large and convenient with all modern improvements necessary to 
the comfort of the church-goer of today; electric light, steam heat, 
Brussels carpet all over the floor, cushioned pews, etc. The main 
audience room 1s seated in circular form, each tier of pews rising a 
few inches above the tier in front. There are 171 pews furnishing 
seating capacity for 700 persons. 

The ceiling 1s “a thing of beauty and a joy forever.’ My 
acquaintance with architectural terms is so slight that | cannot 
describe it correctly but I can tell that it is made of oak and red 
wood and that the arches which are supported by trusses and 
brackets are of most beautiful proportions. 

Immediately back of the pulpit and somewhat higher, is the 
choir loft holding a pipe organ and chairs for singers. To the 
left of the pulpit is a door leading to the pastor’s “study” which 1s 
a cozy little nook fitted up with bookcases and other appropriate 
furnishings and carpeted like the audience room. 

But the artist’s best taste is displayed in the windows. While 
all are very pretty, the Memorial windows are exquisite. The 
donors have modestly kept their own counsel concerning the cost 
but it has been conjectured that the aggregate was not less than 
ten thousand dollars, perhaps more. They are five in number. 
One memoralizes Mrs. Jane Reynolds; a second one, Mr. and 
Mrs. Alexander Colwell, Mrs. H. H. Calhoun and Miss Madge 
Crawford, the other three are each for Mrs. Painter, Mrs. Ewing 
and Mrs. Mayers, the wives of the pastors of the church. 

A brass tablet tells the story of the church’s devotion to Rev. 
Dr. Painter and his memory. 

In the Sunday School room a window to the memory of James 
E. Brown reminds us constantly of his faithfulness as superin- 
tendent for forty years. The Sunday School and Lecture Room is 
separated from the church proper by sliding doors and in the same 
way from the parlor and primary class room. So that the seating 
capacity of the church may be increased by hundreds. 

The parlor is used for the meetings of various societies of the 
church. This floor is carpeted like the lecture room and has a 
piano and other furnishings which give it a home-like appearance 


bo 
“I 
ww 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning | 


and attractiveness. Not least of these is the glowing gas fire 
irradiating the tile hearth and marble mantel while on the latter 
stands the portrait of our missionary in China—Mrs. Re 
Ewing McClintock supported by the Foreign Missionary Society, 
assisted by the Sunday School and Pastor’s Aid Society. Over the 
class rooms at the rear end of the lecture room are three smaller 
rooms, which are used for different purposes. Last, but perhaps 
not least is the kitchen, furnished with a cook stove and a china 
closet tolerably well stocked. Here coffee for festivals and recep- 
tions is made, the Benevolent Committee dispenses its gifts and 
the Home Mission boxes and others are packed. It is also the 
vestibule to the choir loft and consequently a convenient place for 
exchanging the greetings of the day and forming friendships which 
in a few cases have been cemented by stronger ties.”’ 


The Fourth Church 


Early on Sunday morning, March 7, 1909, the cry of “Fire!” 
resounded through the streets. From the first alarm it was known 
that our lovely church was doomed. This disaster followed five 
weeks after the death of the pastor—Dr. Mayers. There was 
nothing to be done but build another church from the foundations 
up as the walls were pronounced unsafe. The tower was very 
little damaged so was not taken down. Much of the stone in the 
main building could be used and what was necessary to supple- 
ment 1t was donated by Mr. Canfield, the owner of the quarry 
from which the stone in the other church was taken. The stone 
for trimming was bought from a Pittsburgh firm. 

Rebuilding was not undertaken till the spring of 1910, although 
the contract was given to Milsom & Bierkemper, December 28, 
1909, fer-$63,000. | 

The contract price was for the bare super-structure. Furn- 
ishings and fittings cost many thousands more. The pulpit furni- 
ture was donated and the windows in the auditorium are all mem- 
orials;-ene each to Rev. Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Painter; Mrs. H. L. 
Mayers; Mrs. Jane Reynolds and the Alexander Colwell family. 
These were all given by relatives. Also the Woman’s Foreign 
Missionary Society put in a window for Rev. Dr. and Mrs. T. D. 
Ewing and the Pastor’s Aid Society remembered Rev. Dr. H. L. 
Mayers in the same way. 


276 ~—s History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The inscriptions on the windows are as follows: 
Sacred to the Memory of 
1799—REV. JOSEPH PAINTER, D. D.—1873 
Pastor of this Church 39 years 


I804—-MARY ANN IRVIN PAINTER—1885 
His Wife 


By the Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society 
“He being dead, vet speaketh.” 


REV. THOMAS DAVIS EWING, D. D. 
Our Pastor, 1864-1880 


and ANNA GRAHAM, his wife. 
“Her candle goeth not out by night.” 


To the greater glory of God and in loving remembrance 


1845--REV. HENRY LOUIS MAYERS, D. D.—1909 


1850 MARGARET GRAIGe REISE LRS=][ss% 
Wife of Rev. Henry Louis Mayers, D. D. 


In Memoriam 


JANE ROSS REYNOLDS 


Born June I, 1801 
Died April 23, 1888 


“Her children arise up and call her blessed.” 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning pee | 
2 fo) 








Iu Memory of 


ALEXANDER AND MARGARET COLWELL 
and Their Daughters 


Mrs. Harriet H. CALHOUN 


MES: BEIZASN MEREDITH 
and Their Granddaughter 


MARGARET H. CRAWFORD 


Robert P. Crawford, of Pittsburgh, filled a niche with a 
mosaic tablet In memory of his wife, Mrs. Sarah Crawford and 
her mother, Mrs. Isabella Arnold, who at one time were members 
of this church. 

The general plan of the church is like the one which was 
burned, but larger and more convenient. It cost more but in some 
ways is not so beautiful. The ceiling in the auditorium is not so 
handsome. 

The first services were held on Christmas, 1910, in the drill 
room which was thought then to be a beautiful place. Sunday, 
March 26, the Sunday School wing was ready for use and all ser- 
vices were held there. This was found to be a wonderful improve- 
ment on the basement. By Sunday, April 2, the auditorium was 
finished and the dedication program was carried out. Part of 
this was to clear a debt of $36,000. A blackboard marked off in 
1,000 squares, each one representing $36.00 stood on the platform 
and effort was made at all the services to wipe out the indebted- 
ness. 

Pledges for all of 1t were made but some of them were from 
children and other irresponsible persons who did not—perhaps 
could not—pay them, but the money was raised at another time. 

The corner stone was laid June 5, 1910. As a heavy rain was 
falling, the exercises were held in St. John’s Lutheran Church. 
Only the actual placing of the stone was performed on the site of 
the ceremony, but the following program was carried out. 


278 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


CORNER STONE LAYING 
of the 
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN -GHURGH 


KITTANNING, Pa. 


Invocation by the Pastor - - -. Rev. W. J. Hutchison, D. D. 


Hymn 304 


The Church’s one foundation 
Is Jesus Christ ber Lord; 


Scripture Lessons + =8"- ois Sette ee Vien V1 weer Lisits 
Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Ford City, Pa. 

Prayer (= 09) = 80% “ens eb ne RR eVen) te eV Olas ane 
Pastor of McKean Street M. E. Church 

Address = -1(..-) 4 = --) Revo SamueleBaMcGornick Lice ais 


Chancellor of the University of Western Pennsylvania 


Hymn 607 and Offering 


Christ 1s our corner-stone, 
On Him alone we build; 


Laying of the Corner-stone - - ad ot) = yee BD Vetheebastor 
Prayer 2" 9 Bot Se 2 ae ee Reve ke Bowl nes 
Pastor of St. Luke’s Reformed Church 

Hymn 302 

Christ 1s made the sure foundation, 

Christ is the head and corner-stone, 
Doxology 
Benediction) | =) j=) (= Ste Rey ee boarhasicn 


Pastor of First Baptist Church 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 279 
“My house shall be called a house of praver for all people” 


1830 1856 1890 191] 


DEDICATORY SERVICES 
of the 
Pitcoieitceop Ya ee AN. Gr GH 


Kittanning, Pennsylvania 


APRIL SECOND TO NINTH NINETEEN HUNDRED ELEVEN 


“Bebold, I build a house to the name of the Lord, my God, to 
dedicate it to Him.” 


SUNDAY MornING SERVICE, 10:30 O’cLocK 


Organ Prelude—“Legend in F” - - -- - C.W. Cadman 
Doxology 

Invocation and Lord’s Prayer 

Responsive Lesson 

Gloria Patri 


Hymn - - - - - = “Come, Thou Almighty King” 
Scripture Lesson 
Ae Gaa Se i *e epi -  - - = Gounod 


“Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty’—Cecilian Mass 
Solo—Mr. Corbett 


Prayer 

PARTURICUT etm Cen) mh vee i om ete ame ee hae him rats eB tD += Gounod 
“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel’”—Cecilian Mass 

Offertory—“Twilight” - - - - - - - - Harper 


Sermon—Subject: “The Ideal Twentieth Century Church” 

- - - Rev. Donald C. MacLeod, D. D., Washington, D. C. 
Prayer 
Hymn - - - - -  - “The Church’s One Foundation” 
Benediction 
roan rostiude—— Offertoire.in.B Plat’; -. ..-=.3 -. Battste 


bo 
ee 


0 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


AFTERNOON SERVICE, 3:00 O’cLock 


Organ Prelude—“Ballade’ - ).- ~=" - =)! =" (“Gottschalk 
Hymn - - - -~ = “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name” 
Prayer 

Three-Part Chorus Sp. eh oma ta a Hn ee td MOLE 


“How Lovely Are Thy Dwellings” 
Woman’s Chorus 


Addresses by Representatives of the Ministerial Association 


Trio Lhousshalteloverthe: Lords -Oratorios [lige oe eosre 
Miss Sara B. Gates, Miss Henrietta Gerheim, Mr. Corbett 


Addresses by Visiting Ministers, Rev. M. S. Bush, Rev. O. J. 
Hutchison, Rev. J. H. Moore and others. 


Four-Part Chorus—‘O Shepherd of Israel” - - Morrison 
Woman’s Chorus 

Offering 

Hymn-s =f. =* a9 a- w-- »  Bleste Bes thems 16— Ghatepiidse 
Benediction 

Postlude—“March in G” - - - - - - Henry Smart 

EVENING SERVICE, 7:30 O’cLocK 

Prelude—“Communion in E Minor” - - - - - Batiste 
EV lea oe i ee - “Jesus Shall Reign” 


Scripture Lesson 
Anthem—‘Send Out Thy Light” - - - - - Gounod 
Prayer 


Offertory—“Ode to the Evening Star” - - - - Wagner 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 281 


Sermon Subject-——“‘Christianity, the Religion of Progress” 
et ne ene aeoe ot ee ie Pre acl eod 


Dedicatory Exercises conducted by the Pastor 


Anthem—‘‘The Radient Morn Hath Passed Away” - -Woodward 


Prayer 

Vinee ee eee  otandsUp, stand Up. forsjesus- 
Benediction 

Organ Postlude—‘Triumphal March” - - - - - Costa 





PROGRAM FOR BALANCE OF WEEK 


Monpay Eveninc—A Free Organ Recital by Prof. Charles Hein- 
roth, Carnegie Institute, Pittsburgh, Pa. 


TUESDAY EvENING—Sermon by J. Allison Platts, Ph. D., Wilkins- 
burg, Pa. Subject, “How Do You Know?” 


WEDNESDAY EVENING——Sermon by Rev. F. M. Silsley, D. D., 
Pittsburgh (North Side), Pa. 


THURSDAY EvENING—Sermon by Rev. George Bailey, D.D., Erie, 
Pa. Subject, “Inspiration from the Hills’. 


FrRipAY EVENING—Sermon by Rev. John Royal Harris, D. D., 
Pittsburgh, Pa. Subject, “Entire Consecration”. 


SATURDAY AT 2:30 P. M.—Sermon preparatory to Communion. 


SUNDAY, APRIL 9TH—The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. 


202 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ARCHITECTURE OF NEW EDIFICE 


The new edifice is a fine example of the Romanesque style of 
architecture in brown stone, adapted to meet the requirements of 
modern church work. The auditorium in this church is a cruci- 





PRESENT CHURCH EDIFICE 


form plan with vaulted plastered ceilings and exposed dark oak 
hammer beam trusses, and this room, which seats nearly eight 
hundred is fitted with specially designed dark English oak pews. 

In the nave wall on Jefferson street side is a beautiful mem- 


Ant . 
im 


A 
y, ay 


JEFFERSON S7 


284 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


orial window “Come Unto Me” with a figure of the Saviour. In 
the Arch street transcept two beautiful memorial windows are in 
place, the one near the tower entrance being the “Good Shepherd”, 
and the other one the angel “Faith”. 

The center window in the Arch street transcept wall is filled 
with a costly memorial, the subject of which 1s “Faith”. 

All other windows in the auditorium, two of which are mem- 
orial windows, are filled with richly colored ornamental glass, 
blending with the wall frescoes into a harmonious color scheme. 
The inside auditorium trenscept opens into the Sunday School 
chapel, sliding doors and glass filled transoms being so arranged 
that the two rooms may be used together, thus seating about 
thirteen hundred in full view of choir and pulpit. 

The Sunday School chapel which seats about six hundred has 
a circular gallery, with class rooms on and below this gallery, be- 
sides larger rooms connecting with the main room for Bible 
classes, church parlors and primary departments. 

The chapel is also finished in dark oak wood work with art 
glass windows, and has a flood of light above from the ceiling 
through a beautiful ornamental skylight. 

The basement of the church contains the social room, dining 
room and fully equipped kitchens, and a large audience room or 
drill room, which will seat seven hundred and is designed for all 
church or Sunday school entertainments. 

The heating and ventilating apparatus installed in this build- 
ing is known as a mechanical system. A large motor driven fan 
brings in fresh air, which is warmed by passing through radiators, 
and then delivered through ducts to the rooms to be heated, while 
a large vent stack exhausts the foul or vitiated air from the main 
audience rooms. 


Pastor 
Rev. Won. J. Hutcuison, D. D. 


Elders | 
FINDLEY P. WOLFF O. N. WILSON 
RoBERT W. CowAn James G. McCuLLouGH 
JoHN D. GALBRAITH ANDREW BRYMER 
E. TayLor HUTCHISON M. L. Bowser 


PauL L. McKENRICK Dr. RUSSELL RUDOLPH 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 285 


Trustees and Building Committee 


James A. GAULT 


Wn. PoLLock Boypb S. HENRY 
W. D. PATTON SAMUEL H. McCain 
Harry A. ARNOLD E. E. KINTER 
Deacons 
Re A. McGuULLouGH LAMONT BIXLER 
CHARLES DARGUE James M. STONE 
FRANK M. SCHUBERT Curis K. LEARD 
Music 
WITSSELEMAMEOX ME nse. “Fee 1 Silt Tee ae ae eine Organist 
Miss Sara B. GATEs - -  - Soprano Soloist and Director 


Architects—Vrydaugh & Wolfe, Pittsburgh, Pa. 
Contractors—Milsom & Bierkemper, Kittanning, Pa. 


In May, 1918, the high spire was struck by lightning and for 
some time it looked as if we might lose another church by the 
destructive element of fire, but heroic work of the local firemen 
aided by the force from Ford City kept the flames from spreading 
to the main building. The spire fell and it was thought to be un- 
wise to rebuild it so the tower is topped with a battlement which, 
by many, Is considered a more pleasing finish. Plans for this were 
drawn by Capt. Lucius L. Bridge, of Boston, Massachusetts. 

The church edifice today is very comfortable and most con- 
venient but 1s not large enough for the Sunday School and in all 
probability an addition will have to be built to the chapel before 
many years. 

This church has had the gift of two bells. The first one was 
presented in the late 50’s by a person whose name was not made 
public but the modest donor was supposed to be Dr. J. B. Finlay. 
That bell was not large enough to call worshipers from the 
farther limits of the town, after its borders had been extended 
during the many intervening years. “In 1913 Wm. S. Ralston 
and his sister, Alice (now Mrs. Wm. Reuss of Philadelphia), gave 
to the church the bell now in use in the tower which was gratefully 
received by the Trustees on behalf of the church. The present 


286 ~~ -History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


bell is much larger than the old one and the metal from the former 
bell was used in casting the new one. This bell was cast in Mr. 
Ralston’s factory in Pittsburgh and the event was witnessed by 
some members of the Board of Trustees.” 


FIRST SUNDAY IN FOURTH CHURCH 


SERV IGESsINGG APE 


From Kittanning Times, March 27, 191] 


PRESBY PERTANS sURPAaseaL ia xX PEC EMRIONS 


In all its illustrious history, the First Presbyterian Sunday 
school of Kittanning has never had such a day as that which mark- 
ed the formal opening of the Sunday school room of the congrega- 
tion’s new edifice on Sunday morning. The hopes of even the 
most enthusiastic workers were far surpassed and such scenes as 
were presented have never been equalled anywhere in Armstrong 
county. | 

Every department of the beautiful room was crowded to the 
utmost and it was necessary to use the halls and corridors to 
accommodate the throngs. The enrollment soared to 778, just 28 
more than the mark that had been set to be reached by next Sun- 
day, when the new church 1s to be dedicated, and though the Sun- 
day school department was thought to have been built large enough 
to meet all needs for years to come yet the conditions Sunday 
morning were so crowded that if anything like them continues an 
annex to the eastern end or the use of the dining hall or drill room 
in the basement will have to be made to take care of the attenders. 
And the spirit that prevailed everywhere in the school at the open- 
ing was indicative of even greater progress. The joy of the offi- 
cials, teachers and scholars ran high and before the exercises came 
to a close they had determined to make a vigorous effort to raise 
the enrollment to an even 1,000. 

When the campaign for new members for the school was 
launched a month ago there were 470 on the rolls. Under Dr. W. 
J. Hutchison’s tireless and inspiring leadership a thorough organ- 
ization was effected to carry out the plans. Fifty ladies volun- 
teered their services, the town and adjacent neighborhoods were 


laid out in districts and a house to house canvass was inaugurated. 
In addition to this the teachers and scholars went to work, former 
pupils were looked up, and new ones sought. The result of these 
systematic efforts speedily became apparent. Classes doubled and 
trebled their enrollment and new classes had to be formed. 

In the Men’s Bible Class one hundred and eighteen were 
present Sunday—the largest the class has ever known. One hun- 
dred and six little tots taxed the capacity of the primary depart- 
ment. Mrs. Paul Mckenrick’s class of ladies had sixty-eight in 
attendance. W. L. Peart’s class had nearly thirty and the Young 
Men’s Bible Class that was organized less than a month ago with 
three on the rolls reported twenty-one out of twenty-three scholars 
answering their names. And so it went all through the school. 

The program rendered in connection with the opening exercises 
was short but very interesting. In full it was as follows: 


9:30 A. M. 
PIMInia ee eine Nt se terse Bree) ate Pets A7 
Bevin =. Sa tea ey, Fang oe IR Ss ee al 48 
Prayer 
Es GELEN, | = Cites cy his el OR Po a Oe ee 8 


Organization of school and study of lesson. 


10:10 A. M. 


CUTE OS! tee Ee ae eg on e Rea te  i a 38 
Greetings from Pastor and Superintendent. 

Song by Infant Department. 

Address by Mrs. Foster (of the Women’s Bible Class). 

OLS ete Rate AUD Fe eee nl mee ge a hia ths ee te Mrs. Eyler 
Address by Mr. Peart (representing his class). 

Song by !nfant Department. 

Address by Mr. R. A. McCullough (representing his class). 
STATED ep grees ee NR ec er 80 


Closing of school. 


288 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The Sunday school department is regarded as one of the hand- 
somest and most complete to be found anywhere in this section 
of the state. There are more than twelve class rooms, the parti- 
tions of which can be easily and quickly raised throwing them 
and the main part of the school into one. At the Jefferson street 
end are the library and the cozy ladies’ parlor, also divided from 
the rest of the school only by a sliding door. Upstairs the Men’s 
Bible Class is comfortably and finely quartered just over the ladies’ 
parlor. Circling from it around the room is a graceful balcony 
also containing class rooms with such elevations as to permit easy 
sight and hearing of all that is transpiring below. The Young 
Men’s Bible Class and W. L. Peart’s class have the rooms at the 
west end of the school. Directly above them is the primary de- 
partment. Three wide and conveniently located stairways make 
access to and from the upstairs a pleasure. While the interior 
makes a very handsome appearance at any time it 1s especially 
beautiful at night when the soft glow of the electric lights brings 
the colors and furnishings out in their full richness. 

Both the regular morning and evening services were held in the 
room with large attendance. At the former this was particularly 
the case. In the evening the inclemency of the weather had a 
tendency to keep people at home but there was still a goodly num- 
ber out. The pastor, Rev. W. J. Hutchison, D. D., preached two 
strong, forceful sermons. Special music was rendered by the 
choir. 

Next Sunday the new church will be dedicated. Three ser- 
vices will be held. Rev. Donald MacLeod, D. D., Washington, 
D. C., will deliver the sermons morning and evening. I[n the 
afternoon at 2:30 o’clock all the churches of town will join in the 
service and addresses will be made by local pastors. The morning 
service will begin at 10:30 o’clock instead of 11:00 o’clock. Under 
the direction of Miss Sara B. Gates the choir has been rehearsing 
special music for the services. A woman’s-chorus of thirty voices 
will sing in the afternoon. 


Trustees 


Qe 09d 0 em eho 


The work of the Trustees has been identified so much with the 
other work of the church and been mentioned or referred to so 
many times in this history that there is not much left to tell about 
them in a separate chapter. 

If any records were kept in the earliest years they have been 
lost or overlooked. 

At a meeting held November 12, 1832, a resolution was adopted 
concerning the sale of pews and there follows a list of names of 
purchasers and prices paid for the pews. The lowest was $5.00— 
the highest $12.00. January 14, 1837—a number of purchasers 
offered the titles and claims to their pews to the trustees for the 
purpose of having them resold. 

The financial accounts were kept accurately, even to the half- 
cents, but money came in slowly and was turned over to “J. P.” 
(which must have stood for Joseph Painter) in very small pay- 
ments, sometimes as little as one dollar. Once he received $18.00 
and there were varying sums between these extremes. The infant 
church was always in debt to one or more of its members, for 
money advanced to pay bills for coal, oil, or whatever was needed. 
Once the debt was a few cents for a dusting-brush. 

The first large payment “J. P.” received was on June 24, 1839, 
and was $158.19. 

The meeting of the Trustees held December 8, 1848, was organ- 
ized by electing a president, a secretary and a treasurer and fill- 
ing a vacancy caused by the declination of one of the number. 
The only other business transacted was “‘to employ a man for one 
year to put on fires, sweep church and to be paid ten dollars for 
the same, coal to be kindly furnished by the Trustees. (Italics 
are not in the record. ) 

January 15, 1850—Trustees resolved that an assessment of 
one dollar be laid upon each pew-holder for the purpose of paying 
for light, fuel, etc., and that suit be brought against all pew- 


290 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


holders, more than two years 1n arrears. From that time for years 
to follow the financial condition of the church was at low ebb. 
Pastor’s salary was always in arrears. On several occasions “‘it 
was resolved to give him a certificate for the balance due him,” but 
the minutes do not show how, or when these certificates were con- 
verted into cash. At one time orders were issued to him on sev- 
eral persons for their unpaid pew-rents, which leads us to imagine 
that the good man was expected to do his own collecting. 

Once it was “resolved” that a note for $399.55 held against the 
church by one of its male members be paid in the following way: 
“That the pew he now occupies in said church shall be granted to 
him and his wife during their lives, (or the survivor of them— 
their daughter during her life) free of stipend or annual assess- 
ment.” If this resolution had been carried into effect, it would 
have been unfortunate as the daughter referred to lived to old 
age and was one of the church’s most liberal supporters. 


January 14, 1856. It was resolved that a congregational meet- 
ing be held for the purpose of considering the propriety of intro- 
ducing instrumental music into the public worship of the church.” 
At the same meeting it was “resolved that the choir be requested to 
take their places and conduct the singing next Sabbath.” The 
reason for this is not made clear and there is no record to show 
that the Session or congregation had a word to say about it. But 
a small melodeon brought into the church caused dissatisfaction 
and several families left us, uniting with the Associate (now 
United Presbyterian) Church. Most of these people came back 
in the course of time, which gave occasion for the belief that the 
instrumental music was an excuse and not the actual reason for 
their going from us. 

March 19, 1860. It was “agreed” that if the sum of $200 be 
secured an invitation should be extended to some suitable person 
to assist Dr. Painter for six months, beginning May, 1860. 


April 13. The Board resolved that Mr. Geo. P. Hays be in- 
vited to become our Stated Supply for the term of six months 
andithat sthessuinyOlmes esse dollars be appropriated for 
his salary for the term specified. The blank in the resolution was 
filled by inserting the words “three hundred and fifty.”” How- 
ever, the Session signified their desire that Mr. Hays should occu- 
py the pulpit two-thirds of the time only and he reserved to him- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 29] 


self the entire control of the other third of his time so the 
Board acquiesced 1n the action of the Session and Mr. Hays’ re- 
quest and reduced the appropriation made to him as Associate 
Pastor to $200.33 1/3. Mr. Hays remained for six months at 
which time a call was extended to him but he declined it as a more 
desirable one came from a church in Baltimore about the same 
time, which he accepted. 

The Trustees’ office has not been a sinecure. 

The work has included everything connected with the church 
property which must be kept in repair, the same as our homes. A 
new roof, new gutters, putting in of gas pipes and fixtures, wiring 
for electricity and etc., are a few of the items which are listed in 
the minutes, while the constantly recurring bills for maintenance 
add to the cost of the upkeep. 

The burdens of church-building must have been heavy but the 
loads were carried cheerfully, although sometimes the treasury 
was not overflowing. It costs a lot to run a church but how much 
more expensive an institution it would be if the workers were 
salaried! Perhaps some of the idlers would be more willing to 
work 1f they were paid and might then be less prone to find fault 
with those who have tried to do their best. 

The Trustees who built the First Church were David Johnston, 
Alexander Colwell, J. E. Brown, Chambers Orr, John R. Johnston, 
Samuel McKee and S. S. Harrison. 

Those who assumed all responsibility for the erection of the 
Second Church were Gen. Robert Orr, J. Alexander Fulton, Joseph 
McCartney, Alexander McCullough, Dr. J. T. Crawford, A. L. 
Robinson and W. W. Hastings. 

Trustees in office when the Third Church was built were John 
A. Colwell, James A. Gault, John M. Hunter, Willis D. Patton, 
George T. Crawford, William Pollock and C. C. Shadle. 


Trustees who bore responsibility for the Fourth Church were 
Harry A. Arnold, Boyd L. Henry, Richard E. Kennerdell, Edward 
S. Hutchison, William Pollock, James A. Gault, Edwin E. Kinter, 
Isaac D. Doverspike and Samuel H. McCain. 


More than 50 persons have served on this Board, only a small 
number of whom are living now. Besides those already men- 
tioned the list is made of the names of the following: Robert 
Robinson, James Galbraith, James McCullough, Sr., Jeremiah 


292 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Bonner, Darwin Phelps, Sr., Adam McConnell, David Crawford, 
Philip Hutchison, Sr., Albert Robinson, Andrew Arnold, D. C. 
Quigley, J. B. Finlay, Samuel Bryson, J: K. Calhoun, James 
Cowan, John Robinson, Dr. T. C. McCulloch, P. K. Bowman, J. V. 
Painter, Robert McKain, J. S. Porter, H. G. Gates,.H. R. Gault, 
lL. Te Campbell}: |.-P2G@ulbertson and*Gs Es. Harrington: 


Some of the Trustees were veterans in the service: 


[Ay Colwell; 40 years 
William Pollock, 38 years 
J. A. Gault, D/eyedls 
Gril Grawford Z2>syears 
We Dr attone oe years 
SaHeMcCamy eee evears 


Some Amusing Incidents 


026) 0-< m0 ew 00% 


While our congregations usually were reverential, there were 
occasions on which they were not models of deportment. Some- 
thing not to be expected would provoke smiles and sometimes an 
assembly was in danger of being demoralized. 

Once the minister’s wife walked the whole length of the church 
with her parasol raised. 

At another time a gentleman being careful of his “derby” set 
it on the floor outside of his pew, when a lady passing down the 
aisle caught the hat in her wide, trailing skirt and carried it along 
as far as her pew near to the front. 

On another occasion, a business man came in and sat down 
with some papers resting on his head. These had been put into 
his hat for safe-keeping. 

One evening at the mid-week service a man sneezed and his 
false teeth flew to the floor. This was amusing to all but the poor 
embarrassed man. 

At another time a man sitting under the shadow of the pulpit 
stood up to remove his overcoat and in the attempt both of his 
coats came off to his elbows. He hauled them up and made a 
second trial which resulted in the entire length of one white sleeve 
being exposed to the vision of the congregation. The man sat 
down promptly in the corner of his pew feeling much too small 
for the place. 

At a morning service a dear old lady came into church rather 
late and as she walked to her place in the “amen” corner, she was 
“the observed of all observers” because the feather on her bonnet 
was standing up like a sentinel. When she cast her eyes about and 
saw amusement written on every face she knew that she was the 
cause of it and wondered what was wrong. But a friend sitting 
back of her, relieved her mind and restored the equilibrium of 
the congregation by reaching forward and putting the unruly 
feather in its proper place. 


294 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


One evening a little boy went to sleep during the sermon and 
fell off the seat, upsetting the foot-bench. The racket arrested 
the attention of the worshipers and incidentally awakened the 
child’s father, who lifted the youngster by the back of his coat. 
All who saw the pantomime—and everybody did—were convulsed 
with laughter and each one seemed to see amusement from a dif- 
ferent viewpoint. It was one of the funniest things which ever 
happened in our church during a service. There were two min- 
isters in the pulpit—Rev. Dr. Kellogg preaching and Rev. Mr. 
Magill contributing his “approving presence.”” Both said after- 
wards that they had found it difficult to keep straight faces. 

Dr. Kellogg, who had been a missionary in India, told this 
story. Once when he was preaching to an English-speaking audi- 
ence in Allahabad in a hall seated with cane-bottom chairs a 
missionary entered but when she sat down the cane in her chair 
gave away, she fell through the rim and could not get out without 
help. Doctor said that was the time he came nearest to laughing 
in the pulpit. Imagine the feelings of Mrs. Missionary if you 
can! 

Incidents with a local coloring could be multiplied but these 
are sufficient to show that human nature was the same fifty and 
more years ago as it is today. The people were not irreverent but 
were not too “pious” to enjoy a joke or appreciate wholesome fun 
even at a religious service. The good Lord understood then as 
he does now. 


Ninety-fifth Anniversary 


Qoamo< oem ete 


The ninety-fifth anniversary began on Friday evening, August 
31, 1917, with an intensely interested and sympathetic audience. 
The pastor led in a devotional service in which prayer was offered 
by Rev. Walter Kennedy. Several old hymns were sung—Rock 
of Ages”, “Jesus Lover of My Soul,” and the newer one “The 
Little Brown Church.” 

Dr. Hutchison made some introductory remarks explaining 
why this anniversary was observed. One reason given was that 
in the natural course of events many who were present then would 
not be here to celebrate the centenary, which supposition was pro- 
phetic. He also contrasted the circumstances of ninety-five years 
earlier with those of the present day—but said some things have 
not changed. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ is the same as 
are also the hope and love of the gospel. Dr. Hutchison said this 
anniversary might be considered as preliminary to the Centennial 
to be celebrated five years hence. 

Four papers were read. Paul L. McKenrick’s was a History 
of Kittanning Presbytery; John D. Galbraith’s subject was “The 
Pastors of the Church”; Findley P. Wolff gave a detailed report 
of the Session, and A. L. Ivory’s paper was on “The Membership 
of the Church.” 


HISTORY OF KITTANNING PRESBYTERY 


Compiled for the Ninety-fifth Anniversary of the First Presbyterian 
Church, Kittanning, Pa., August 31, 1917. 


By Paut L. McKEnrick 


Kittanning Presbytery in its present territorial extent embraces 
the district included within the boundaries of Armstrong and 
Indiana Counties with the exception of a small strip separated by 
Black Lick Creek. This small portion belongs to Blairsville 
Presbytery. 


296 ~~ -Historyv of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The present area and boundaries of the Presbytery are the 
final results of a series of annexations, partitions and adjustments 
extending over many years and made from time to time as con- 
venience or necessity prompted the adaptation to the development 
and growth of Presbyterianism in this particular locality. 


The territory embraced by Kittanning Presbytery has been 
included in whole or in part within the bounds of several Presby- 
teries. This Presbytery has had an exceptional career, covering 
more than a century and linking us practically with Revolutionary 
days. 

On May 16, 1781, while the Revolutionary War was in pro- 
eress the Synod of New York and Philadelphia erected Redstone 
Presbytery and it was formally organized at Laurel Hill Church, 
in Fayette County, September 19 of that year. This Presbytery 
reached “from the summit of the Alleghenies to the farthest west- 
ern borders of civilization.”” This continued for twenty years 
when the Presbytery of Erie was erected and that part of Arm- 
strong County west of the Allegheny River was included in it. 
After some other changes in boundaries this eastern part of the 
county became a part of Kittanning Presbytery in 1870. 


That part of Armstrong County lying east of the Allegheny 
River and the county of Indiana continued in Redstone Presby- 
tery until October, 1830, when it became a part of Blairsville 
Presbytery and continued in this connection until the erection of 
Saltsburg Presbytery in 1856. It is noted that the part of Arm- 
strong County lying between two creeks—Redstone and Mahoning 
—and containing one church named “Middle Creek”, from _ its 
location, was attached to Clarion Presbytery until 1870 when it 
became a part of Kittanning Presbytery. The Worthington 
Church was connected with Mahoning Presbytery of the Free 
Presbyterian Church. 

The history of Kittanning Presbytery is to be found in the 
history of 1ts individual churches, and it is to them we must look 
for a detailed account of the planting of Presbyterianism in this 
section of America. From these early churches a composite his- 
tory may be gathered. Their struggles, spiritual and financial, 
were many and severe and well worth the thoughtful consideration 
of coming generations. It 1s because of their efforts and sacrifices, 
their steadfast adherence to principle and their faithful living of 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 297 


the teachings of Christianity amid distressing surroundings, that 
we as a church are what we are today. 

These conditions existed about the close of the Revolutionary 
War, in Washington’s administration; twenty years before Fulton’s 
first steamboat was built, and forty years before a mile of railroad 
track was laid in the United States. The Indians had been driven 
out but a few years before. There were but few acres of cleared 
eround, means of communication were slow, and transportation 
was of a character which had made little progress since the days 
of Adam. Foot paths, or badly constructed roads through the 
wilderness were the only avenues over which travelers afoot and 
cumbersome wagons might move or be dragged with difficulty. 
While rural settlements and churches were being established the 
village of Kittanning had emerged from an Indian settlement to a 
place of some importance and was the intermediate station between 
Fort Duquesne—Now Pittsburgh—and French Town—now Frank- 
lin. 

The development of a new country is first along its waterways 
due to the easy mode of travel provided and the absence of trails 
or roads. This explains the prevalence in the states bordering 
upon the Ohio, of people of the same Scotch-Irish stock and the 
Presbyterian faith which predominated in the early days in this 
section. Those early settlers penetrated these western wilds to 
found homes. They were a sturdy race—many of them Revolu- 
tionary soldiers. With the settlements churches began to appear. 
Churches of other denominations were scattered here and there 
but few rural districts were more solidly Presbyterian than these 
in western Pennsylvania and to this day we are in what might 
properly be called “the stronghold of Presbyterianism in America.” 


The first churches of which there is record were Bethel and 
Ebenezer in Indiana County. When we consider the time and 
place of their formation these names are significant. These 
churches were organized about 1790. 


Records of Redstone Presbytery show that on October 15, 1799, 
the congregation of Union and Fairfield (now Slate Lick) asked 
for supplies. So it appears that at the beginning of the last cen- 
tury there were four churches in what is now Kittanning Pres- 
bytery—two in Armstrong County and two in Indiana County. 
In 1810 there were eight churches. In 1830 thirteen. At the 


298 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


present time this Presbytery contains sixty churches with a mem- 
bership of 9,743. 


The first church buildings were of log construction and of a 
single type of architecture. The average dimensions were 25 or 
30 feet square, one story high, with a door at one or two ends and 
the pulpit at the side. A window with oiled paper or with small 
panes of glass added to the comfort of the congregation. The pul- 
pits were of rude construction and the churches considered them- 
selves advanced when they were able to boast of a ten-bushel 
store-box set upon end for this purpose. The seats were of split 
logs, smooth side up and set upon four peg-legs. One or two 
churches boasted of floors, and it is recorded of Bethel Church 
that it had “neither seats nor fire-place, the congregation making 
itself as comfortable as possible.” In winter the minister fre- 
quently preached in his fur overcoat and mittens while his hearers 
moved about to keep from freezing. The early churches have 
left some wonderful records and lessons in church finance. Slate 
Lick issued a call for a pastor about the year 1800 and Rev. John 
Boyd accepted. The call provided that half of the salary should 
be paid in cash and the balance in produce—wheat at five shillings 
and corn at three shillings per bushel. As no amount of salary 
was mentioned it is to be presumed that this pastor earned his in- 
come several times, first by preaching and then by trying to collect 
whatever the traffic would stand. The pledges were made in this 
fashion: Mr. A. $50 and 1% bushels of wheat; Mr. B. $67 and 
| bushel of wheat. The aggregate recorded was $15 and I1 5/6 
bushels of wheat. In 1814 this congregation (Slate Lick) called a 
pastor at $150 for half his time and one-half of his salary was to 
be paid in grain. Glade Run (Dayton) church was organized in 
1808 but there had been preaching services in the settlement sev- 
eral years before. This congregation claims the distinction of 
holding the first Communion services in the Presbytery. Their 
first church was built in 1821. Later when repairs on it had to 
be made the popular subscription for this purpose read, “Mr. 
A. gits five logs; Mr. B. gits five rafters.” The sexton was to 
receive an annual salary of $4.00. 

The Rural Valleys Church in 1835-40 had about 80 members 
and was probably the largest congregation in the county. Rev. 
Joseph Painter served this congregation at this time giving one- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 299 


fourth of his time at an annual salary of $80 payable in produce 
at the prevailing Kittanning market prices. 


The history of Presbyterianism in this town began in 1805 
when Rev. Joseph Henderson, pastor of Bethel and Ebenezer 
churches, on his way from Pittsburgh stopped over and preached 
in Kittanning. He found a number of the inhabitants desirous 
of having the ordinances of the church dispensed to them and a 
request for supplies was made on the 18th of April, 1806. The 
records show that services were a decided novelty. There were 
four in 1806; three in 1807; one in 1808; one in 1809, and three 
in 1810. 


In 1822 Rev. Thomas Davis gave six days and during his 
preaching the people expressed a desire to call a pastor. Accord- 
ingly on the 3Ist of August, 1822, this church was organized with 
22 members. A call was issued to Rev. Davis for one-half his 
time at a salary of $200 but he declined it. Presbytery appointed 
supplies till 1830 when Rev. James Campbell was called to the 
pastorate at a salary of $300 for three-fourths of his time. He 
remained one year. Rev. Campbell began his pastorate with a 
membership of 43, but three years after it was reduced to 26. This 
was due to various causes and yet during that time a church had 
been erected at a cost of $1,510.57. About this time a new era 
began to dawn and on November 14, 1834, Rev. Joseph Painter 
was installed pastor at a salary of $333.33 1/3 for two-thirds of 
his time. A plan of the seats, giving names of pew-holders is 
preserved. These are familiar and among them will be recognized 
ancestors of many members of our congregation today: Brown, 
Lee, Robinson, Orr, Colwell, McCullough, Meredith, Mechling, 
Galbraith, Hutchison, Copley, Crawford, Arnold, Rohrer and 
‘Thompson. 

The first Sunday School was organized in 1818 by A. Colwell, 
David Johnston, Thomas Hamilton and J. E. Brown. This was 
four years before the organization of the Presbyterian Church. 
The enthusiasm gradually died out and for years the Sunday 
School connected with this church lost ground. In 1859 it had 
only eight teachers and twenty-seven scholars. The system was 
defective, the methods were antiquated and the idea seemed to pre- 
vail that austere piety alone could awaken youthful minds and 
hearts to an appreciation of spiritual things. The world has learn- 


300 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ed that teaching is a science and that the successful Sunday School 
today, such as we possess 1s the result of practical business methods 
applied to religious instruction. 

(Here follows an interesting treatise on the different pastors 
and church edifices but it 1s omitted because the subjects are writ- 
ten up in other articles in this history.—Ed. ) 

I have dwelt at length upon the progress of this church be- 
cause of its prominent position in Kittanning Presbytery and in 
like or relative measure progress has marked every church in the 
Presbytery. The missionary ministers of the early days have 
been succeeded by a fine body of educated men each doing a won- 
derful work in his particular field. Sixty churches in as many 
progressive and influential communities are exerting every power 
to help their sister denominations spread the gospel of Christ. 
Primitive churches have passed away. New towns, new industries 
and new people, even from over the seas, are changing this won- 
derful country and this Presbytery 1s in the van. Once on the 
outposts of civilization and dependent it is now spending thousands 
of dollars for missionary work. 15,000 people of foreign birth, 
and not speaking the English language, reside in this Presbytery 
and the Presbytery supports special missionaries and_ spends 
thousands of dollars to bring the Gospel, education and American 
civilization to them. 

As a Church and Presbytery we are today what we are because 
of the faith and labor of those who have gone before. In each 
generation and place there comes to each one a call for service. 
If we possess the present with its wealth of achievement, springing 
from the visions and deeds of the generations gone before, we 
should catch a glimpse of the boundless possibilities of this 
Church and Presbytery in advancing Christianity through ages 
unborn and renew our strength and determination to do our part 
well. 

With Mr. McKenrick’s permission the following has been 
added to his paper.—( Ed.) 


PRESBYTERIAL CONNECTIONS 


The territory in which Kittanning is situated has been com- 
prised in four Presbyteries. The “First Presbyterian Church of 
Kittanning” was organized by a committee from Redstone Pres- 
bytery, whose boundaries at that time “had no western limit.” 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 301 


In 1830 Redstone Presbytery was divided, the Presbytery of 
Blairsville was erected and this church became a part of the new 
Presbytery. In 1856 Blairsville Presbytery was divided and we 
were included in the division called Saltsburg Presbytery. This 
arrangement continued till after the reunion of the Old and New 
School branches of the Presbyterian Church in 1869. 

After that a great change in ecclesiastical boundaries was 
effected which was expressed by the word “reconstruction.” With 
few exceptions Synodical lines were made to conform to State 
boundaries, while Presbyteries included one or more counties. 
The*new Synod of Erie met in Erie, Pa, July 7, 18/0, and the 
“Presbytery of Kittanning” was formally organized at that place. 
It included most all the churches in Armstrong and Indiana 
Counties. Parker, in Armstrong County, 1s in Butler Presbytery 
for convenience; Blairsville and a few small churches in Indiana 
County are in Blairsville Presbytery for sentimental reasons. 

Our pastor was a member of the Synod which met at Erie and 
he told after the meeting that while some of the “brethren” were 
disputing about something which they thought was of more im- 
portance than a name for the new Presbytery Mr. Ewing seized 
the opportunity and by whatever order of procedure such meas- 
ures are accomplished, he succeeded in having the Presbytery 
named “Kittanning”. 

At the reconstruction in 1870 this Presbytery was one of six 
assigned by the General Assembly to the Synod of Erie. Finally 
upon the consolidation of Synods in 1882 it became a part of the 
Synod of Pennsylvania. 


PASTORS OF THE CHURCH 


By JoHN D. GALBRAITH 


Mr. Galbraith prefaced his paper by showing a curiosity in 
the form of a deed for a pew sold to his father in 1837 for pew 
No. 55 at an annual rental of $20. Pews were sold but the 
owner was supposed to pay an annual rental besides. Sittings 
now are all free, and are only personally appropriated for use; 1f 
the regular occupant does not use them someone else does, and 
the regular occupant sits elsewhere. 


302 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Mr. Galbraith’s subject was “The Pastors of this Church” 
and he handled his topic in a highly interesting manner as he has 
a clear recollection of them all with one exception—Rev. James 
Campbell, who was installed August I1, 1830, and resigned 
October 4, 1831. The church had no pastor after that till Novem- 
ber, 1834, when Rev. Joseph Painter was installed. An interest- 
ing episode of this pastorate was the pastor’s troubles about the 
music. A. L. Robinson was leading singer and one sunday he 
brought a small melodeon into the choir. This helped the music 
but also helped to make trouble for Dr. Painter. This was the 
first instrument in the church and was the occasion for several 
of our members leaving us and going to the U. P. Church. 

The next minister was Rev. Geo. P. Hays, who served for six 
months but not as pastor. 

The third pastor was Rev. T. D. Ewing who came in 1864. A 
number of other seminary students preached for us at this period, 
but Mr. Ewing was called. There were 164 communicants when 
he became pastor but the number increased rapidly. The fourth 
pastor was Rev. H. L. Mayers who was installed May 11, 1881. 
During his ministry he suffered an attack of paralysis and was 
unfitted for the duties of the pastorate for over a year—during 
which time Rev. Edward Bryan officiated. Finally Rev. W. M. 
Roulston was engaged as pastor’s assistant for a year, and came 
January 1, 1908. During this time Dr. Mayers’ good business 
abilities were of great use to the church. Mr. Galbraith spoke 
feelingly of the loss of the pastor by death and the subsequent 
loss of the church by fire and the return to the old church—now 
Hose House No. | for religious services: Chairs were borrowed 
from Capt. John Hudson’s boat and a pulpit from the Reformed 
Church. Dances were held in the room during the week but we 
had possession on Wednesday evenings for prayer meeting. After 
telling in interesting detail of the troubles incident to filling the 
pulpit he closed by narrating the choice of the present pastor— 
Rev. Wm. J. Hutchison, D. D., who was recommended and from 
the first was blest in being able to unite the different factions in 
the congregation. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 303 


HISTORY OF THE CHURCH SESSION 


By FINDLEY P. WOLFF 


Mr. Wolff commenced his paper by saying that the Sessional 
records while furnishing but little information from which the 
earliest history of the church and of the men who originated and 
persevered in its establishment can be gathered, does at least give 
the names and in most cases the time of retirement of the men to 
whom the early church gave oversight and maintenance of its 
religious life. 

The roll of names of supporters, the name of the church and 
the names of trustees and elders was made out on Saturday, 
August 30, 1822—August 31 being the Sabbath. The church was 
named “The First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning.” The 
Session was formed by the ordination and installation on Sunday, 
August 31, 1822, of David Johnston, Thomas Hamilton and John 
Patrick. John Patrick died four years after and Samuel Matthews 
who was elected to the office, died before his ordination. 

No further filling of vacancies appears till 1834 when Thomas 
Hamilton died and Hamlet Totten was installed as elder. Mr. 
Totten was later dismissed to the Rural Valley Church where he 
died. 

In 1839 Charles Montgomery, John Hood and A. L. Robinson, 
were installed elders and Alexander Colwell and J. R. Johnston 
were set apart as deacons. In 1850 James Patrick and S. S. White 
and in 1856 James S. Quigley were severally inducted into the 
office of elder and became members of the Session. 

After ordination the record is meagre relative to individual 
members of the Session but from other sources it is found that of 
the eleven who were members prior to 1850 four had died before 
1883. 

In 1860 Col. J. B. Finlay, John Robinson, Marcus Hulings 
and P. K. Bowman became members. In 1868 Col. J. G. Parr 
and J. E. Brown were installed and in 1869 Wm. H. Jack. In 
September, 1868, Elder P. K. Bowman was elected Clerk of Ses- 
sion succeeding J. B. Finlay. 

No apparent change was made till 1877 when James Martin, 
George W. Doverspike and Robert S. Slaymaker were ordained. 
The membership of the Session then was Wm. H. Jack, Jas. S. 


304. History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Quigley, James Patrick, James Martin, P. K. Bowman, R. S. 
Slaymaker and G. W. Doverspike. In 1885 an election resulted 
in the choice of Andrew Thompson, Findley P. Wolff and Robert 
W. Cowan. Up to this time the elders were elected for a lifetime. 
They might retire from active membership in the Session or be 
removed for unfitness but did not cease to be elders because of 
retirement or removal to another church. Of the Session of 1885 
Findley P. Wolff is the only survivor. In 1900 it was resolved to 
elect seven additional elders and seven deacons. Those elected 
were—Elders, John D. Galbraith, Edgar A. Adams, W. F. Stitt, 
J. H. Lawson, O. N. Wilson, and Jas. G. McCullough; Deacons, 
Wm. Wible, M. L. Bowser, E. T. Hutchison, R. E. Kennerdell, 
Geo. Kk. Peecock and Edwin Wilson. 

In 1905 Paul L. McKenrick, Robert Heffelfinger and E. f. 
Hutchison were elected to fill vacancies on the board of elders and 
Messrs. Galbraith, McCullough and Wilson were re-elected. 

In 1910 the congregation reduced the term of office of elders and 
deacons to three years and under this adjustment elected Jno. D. 
Galbraith, E. T. Hutchison and P. L. McKenrick for three years, 
J. G. McCullough, O. N. Wilson and Andrew Brymer for two years, 
and M. L. Bowser and Dr. R. Rudolph for one year. 


CHURCH MEMBERSHIP 


By ALFRED L. Ivory 


The fourth paper was contributed by A. L. Ivory on the 
“Membership of the Church” from date of organization August 
31, 1822, to August 31, 1917. At the outset Mr. Ivory illustrated 
the growth of the church by the story, from Ezekiel 47:1-13 of 
the small stream of water which grew in volume till it could not 
be passed over and which enriched the desert through which it 
flowed. He likened the origin of the Kittanning Church to the 
start of this stream. The beginning 22 souls—he said—was small 
but as the years rolled by it became a great river, including the 
lifestream of 2603 souls. 

He spoke of the sacrifices and devotion of these people who 
were not only active in the church but were prominent in business 
and public affairs; builders of financial institutions, industries 
and commerce; fathers and mothers of families whose descendants 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 305 
are prominent here today—the Plymouth Rock pioneers of Kit- 
tanning. 

Mr. Ivory mentioned that it was by the will of one of the first 
elders that a bequest of $400 was made towards a neat brick 
building to be called “The First Presbyterian Church.” 

The lot on South Jefferson Street was purchased June 30, 1830, 
from Jacob M. Wise, of Greensburg, and was conveyed to David 
Johnston, John Galbraith, Alexander Colwell, Samuel Houston 
and Samuel S. Harrison, trustees. The lot had passed through 
many owners’ hands in a short time and was finally sold for $150. 

The church applied for a charter which was granted in 1841 
when it was duly incorporated. A supplement was added to the 
charter in 1865 and was signed by Robert McKain, J. A. Colwell, 
Robert Orr, T. C. McCulloch, James McCullough, P. K. Bow- 
man and J. V. Painter, Trustees. . 

The gradual growth of the church up to the present member- 
ship was given in detail and Mr. Ivory also read the names of 
prominent families still connected with this church—descendants 
of its first members. He concluded with an eloquent tribute to 
the faithful service of those who had passed away and closed by 
quoting from Rev. 14:13.: “Blessed are the dead which die in 
the Lord; yea, saith the Spirit that they may rest from their labors 
and their works do follow them.” 


HISTORICAL SERMON 


The observance of the ninety-fifth anniversary of the organ- 
ization of the First Presbyterian Church, which commenced on 
Friday night, culminated on Sunday by the delivery of an anni- 
versary sermon in the morning by the pastor, Rev. Wm. J. 
Hutchison, D. D., and the reading of interesting papers relative 
to the history of the Sunday school by Miss Lydia Robinson and 
others who have for many years been active in that field of the 
church’s work. 


The subject of the sermon was “Our Saintly Benefactors.” 
The address was based upon two texts—‘‘Remember the days of 
old, consider the years of many generations;” Deut. 2:7, and 
“Other men labored, and ye are entered into their labors,’ John 
4:38. 


306 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


“Four score and fifteen years ago, a little band of godly men 
and women holding the doctrines of the Presbyterian faith, duly 
constituted this church to the glory of God, and the worship of 
Jesus Christ. 


“They were making history that day, and to us the work of 
Saturday, August 31, 1822, was a good day’s work; better perhaps 
than was supposed by those who did it. They laid the founda- 
tion, and others through the years have been building thereon. 
Their’s was pioneer work, but it was of the greatest importance 
as all such work has been. In passing along the street | have 
often stopped to watch the masons placing the foundation stones 
of an immense building in an excavation feet and feet below the 
level of the pavement. It has always been God’s way to take a 
humble man and make his deeds or inventions the foundations of 
ereat institutions and achievements. It 1s so with the man whose 
back was bent in bearing his burdens, who conceived an ingenious 
way of transporting them and rounded out the first cart wheel. 
His was a great invention; without him modern transportation 
methods would have been impossible, without him there could 
have been no “Twentieth Century Limited.” 


“One day a rude savage stood on the banks of a swollen stream 
watching logs and other debris floating by, and a bright idea was 
born in his primitive brain—he would make a raft by binding a 
number of logs together, and to his genius we owe more than to the 
designer of the great modern steamship. What these men did for 
the material world, these pioneer folks did for this church and 
this prosperous and happy community. Upon their faith and 
labors the great temple of this congregation has been built. Today 
we pause to pay a tribute of respect and gratitude to their memory, 
and to recall the spirit of love, loyalty and sacrifice with which 
they planned and labored. To them we are greatly indebted; 
they are our saintly benefactors. But as we turn now to the 
deeds of the past, what memories they stir! In what barren 
austere surroundings they met in those early churches. The open 
door afforded the only means of ventilation. It was not stained 
glass through which the light filtered, but oiled paper instead. 
They sat not in comfortable pews with velvet cushions, but upon 
rough hewn benches without backs. They could not turn a switch 
and flash on the electric lights flooding the room with their soft 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 307 


mellow glow, but they were content with the tallow dip. No 
great organ with its majestic tones led the worshipers praise, but 
they sang the songs of Zion, line after line, as the precentor 
directed. The automobile, the telephone, the telegraph and rail- 
road had not yet made their advent, neither did the first steam- 
boat ascend the Allegheny river to this point until years later. 


“This was then the far west, and Kittanning was an outpost, 
a mission of western civilization. How different today! A 
thriving little city of nearly 10,000 souls in the very heart of the 
greatest industrial center in all the world. Their advantages and 
opportunities were limited—their influence almost if not entirely 
confined to the 325 souls who then lived in the village. Ours know 
no limitations. Steam and electricity eliminated time and space 
and brought the whole world to our doors, and men of every race 
and tongue are our neighbors now, and we are more conversant 
with the things which are taking place in Europe or even far off 
China or Japan than they were with the doings in the nearest 
settlement. Life today is intensified a hundred, yea a thousand 
fold, and it means and can be made to count for proportionately 
so much. | think that we should reverently thank Almighty God 
that our lot has been cast in this enlightening community—in 
this golden era of the world’s history. Shall we be indifferent to 
our great, far-reaching opportunities? Shall we spend our pre- 
cious lives in merely dreaming and drifting? Be strong! We are 
not here to drift: we have hard work to do and loads to lift. Shun 
not the struggle, face it! “Tis God’s gift. Be strong.’ 

“Eight years after the organization the congregation was en- 
couraged by a bequest of $400 in the will of Thomas Hamilton, 
who had served as a ruling elder since its inception, to undertake 
the erection of a house of worship—the first church building to 
be erected in this community. This church was built on South 
Jefferson Street on the lot now occupied by Hose House No. |. 
This served the congregation a place of worship for 26 years 
when one corner gave way and being a brick structure, it was 
irreparable. The building now used by the Hose Company was 
erected at a cost of $3,900. How swiftly earth’s generations 
pass. The pious that moulded the brick and carried and cut the 
stone and fitted them into their places have long ago crumbled into 
dust. Where are the thousands who have knelt within these 


308 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


sacred precincts in humble reverence with sin-burdened hearts 
and tear-bedimmed eyes, who poured their woes and _ sorrows, 
their trials and disappointments into the sympathetic ear of the 
Man of Sorrowsr The great company of them have passed 
down into the valley of the shadow. The names of many of them 
have even been forgotten. 

“Others sleep in the old graveyard, neglected and overgrown 
with weeds and underbrush, and their graves, if reports are to be 
credited, are nightly made the scene of wild and drunken orgies.” 


“To my mind,at 1s a shame and a disgrace—a reflection on our 
civic pride, and reveals a lack of appreciation of the labors and 
sacrifices of these splendid pioneers who have bequeathed us a 
noble heritage. Some one surely can be made _ responsible. 
Wherein rests the titler In the countyr If so, the County Com- 
missioners ought to be requested to act. 


“With the passing of the men and women who played an 1m- 
portant part in the early history of this church, we are reminded 
of the vanity of earthly aims and aspirations, and the utter folly 
of our jealousies, enmities, and bitter contentions. Some aspired 
to wealth and fame and position as men do now; some no doubt 
were envious and uncharitable, and bitter in their contentions. 
But time has levelled all differences, and silenced their bitter, un- 
friendly criticisms. Side by side they sleep in the solemn resting 
place in the tomb. We do not so much as recall the things in 
which some of them may have taken pride. Their differences 
and disputes are never mentioned except to provoke a smile. The 
generation yet to be born will never ask whether we were rich or 
poor; they will laugh or pity as the mood may be at our charit- 
able deeds, and our un-Christian treatment of a fellow disciple. 
We laugh at some of their short sighted methods and narrow 
ideas. We do not become wrought up when we are reminded of 
their spirited debates concerning election, predestination and in- 
fant damnation. We smile at the ‘tempest-in-a-teapot’ affair 
which was created by introducing the first little old melodeon. 
The pews in the first church had doors on the sides with locks—for 
what purpose the door and the lock? I don’t know, unless it was 
to keep the children in during the long sermons, and to bar out 
suspicious looking strangers. Deeds for the pews, such as are to- 
day given for a cemetery lot, were drawn and executed in all 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 309 


seriousness. A lesson is here for those of us who were born in 
the nineteenth century and imbibed its old fashioned ways and 
notions—we can’t and we are foolish to try to force our strait-laced 
ways and our fogyish ideas upon those who have been born in this 
restless, progressive twentieth century. In those good old days, 
some folks actually left the church because innovations were in- 
troduced—their presence must have been missed in those days when 
the membership was small; but the congregation moved on with- 
out them. They were not indispensable. No one ever is to the 
life of the Church of Christ. 


“Where are those fathers and mothers of Israel? One by one 
they answered the call of the grim reaper, or moved out of the 
bounds of the congregations, and yet others came to take their 
places, and the church grew and prospered. This thought should 
make us humble—we each one have a work to do, but we are not 
indispensable. We will pass out shortly, and some wiser and per- 
haps more Christ-like will take the place made vacant, and the 
work will go forward with leaps and bounds. “God buries his 
workmen, but carries on the work.” There is a unity in gospel 
work. One sows and another waters, and still another reaps. 


“That August day ninety-five years ago marks only a very 
small beginning—only 22 members—but we are warned not to 
despise the day of small beginnings. I have stood at the head- 
waters of the Allegheny river up in Potter county; I have looked 
upon it as it flows past our city; | have seen it when its waters 
have mingled with the Monongahela and formed the beautiful 
Ohio; | have stood on the banks of the Mississippi great father of 
waters ever growing in volume and wonder. on its way to the gulf. 
Twenty-two that day, but almost 2,600 people since have identified 
themselves with the congregation. Hundreds have literally 
entered the doors of its sanctuary to find them the very gateway 
to heaven. Other thousands have worshiped here, and have 
gone to live in a closer fellowship with the blessed Christ. 

“Moses says, ‘God is a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the 
fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generation.’ 
Thank God the seed of sin dies out. Not so with the seed of 
righteousness—it never dies out. The psalmist says “The mercy 
of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear 
him and his righteousness unto children’s children.’ Five of the 


310 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


22 charter members have Jineal descendants in active fellowship 
today. There have been congregational misfortunes. As_ with 
Christ, who must needs go through Samaria, and there at the well 
found opportunity to deliver his message to the people, so have 
we had to ‘go through Samaria.’ It is a tribute to the zeal of your 
pastors that you have had but four in eighty-three years.” 


59 YEARS A SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER 


Miss Lydia Robinson, of South Water Street, this place, who 
has just completed her fifty-ninth consecutive year as a Sunday 
school teacher probably enjoys the distinction of being the oldest 
Sunday school teacher in the point of service in the county. 
Several years ago she was among the very few teachers in the State 
to receive a medal from the Pennsylvania State Sabbath School 
Association for half a century of faithful service. Miss Robinson's 
labors have all been confined to the First Presbyterian Sunday 
school of Kittanning and she read the following interesting history 
of the school last Sunday morning in connection with the church’s 
ninety-fifth anniversary: 


“This Sunday school is a successor of a Union school which 
history says was organized in 1818. Several years afterward de- 
nominational schools were established but as all Sunday school 
records were lost when the church was burned a few years ago | 
do not know when the Presbyterian school was organized. | only 
remember of my father leading me there when I| was a very little 
girl. The church was then on the site of Hose House No. | and 
was a square building of one room, also used for the church ser- 
vices. The class occupied a long pew, the teachers kneeling on the 
seat in front or standing while teaching. Until several years 
later there was no musical instrument, the tune being raised by 
some one, usually Mr. A. L. Robinson, who was the ‘soul of music’ 
and who was so much interested in that part of the worship that 
afterwards he carried a small melodeon from his home to the 
church every Sunday. After the church was built which is now 
used by Hose Co. No. I, an instrument called a Harmonium was 
bought and was used in both church and Sunday school. It was 
quite large and was brought from choir loft to Sunday school room 
and returned for the respective services. There was a ring in each 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning ma eh 


corner, through which poles were put and in this way it was 
carried by two young men. There was no music for the hymns, 
no responsive readings and no quarterlies as we have now for the 
scholars. Teachers had helps but they were inferior to what we 
have today. For a long time the lessons were in the Gospel—gen- 
enerally in Matthew and once we studied the book: of Acts. 
There was no changing from the New to the Old Testament and 
we studied straight through a book. The scholars were required 
to memorize the whole lesson and the Superintendent gave out on 
one day what would be the lesson for the next. Some teachers 
expected their pupils to learn Psalms and other portions of Scrip- 
ture for which rewards were given. All were required to learn the 
catechism ana recite it in class. Then we had a public examina- 
tion of the lesson almost every day. Sometimes a stranger present 
spoke and in this way occupied the time. Catechism questions 
were also asked by the Superintendent and answered either by one 
class or the whole school in concert. It is to be regretted that these 
features are not more insisted upon in these days of special privi- 
leges. There was a time when no offering was taken and | do not 
know when this was introduced. At first 1t was small and was 
given to Foreign Missions—now it amounts to hundreds of dollars 
and is distributed through various channels of benevolent work. 
We always had library books and Mr. W. B. Meredith was for 
many years one of the librarians but | am not certain that we had 
papers in my earliest recollection. Instead of the congregational 
picnic as we have it now there was a celebration of the 4th of July 
held in a nearby grove if weather permitted. To this teachers and 
scholars walked in procession. Later we went to Mergenthaler’s 
Grove—three miles out by hired or private conveyance which was 
rather a tedious undertaking. There was not much trouble in 
getting there but no guarantee as to when we would get back, 
which was often late in the evening. Sometimes we went by 
train to a grove near Templeton and spent the day, where amuse- 
ments were about the same as we indulge in these days at Lenape 
Park. The Superintendent was elected quarterly by a vote of the 
school and often succeeded himself. That custom was, however, 
discontinued and Mr. J. E. Brown and Mr. Doverspike each held 
the office for many years and died in the harness. Now the Ses- 
sion elects all Sunday school officers annually. Until Dr. Mayers 


Be History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


became pastor we had no observance of Christmas in any way. 
He introduced the custom of each teacher and scholar bringing a 
donation of food or clothing, or materials which was afterwards 
distributed to the poor. This was continued as long as there ap- 
peared to be a necessity for it. There were also prizes given for 
attendance and recitations In connection with it, as we have now. 
What was once small in its beginnings and primitive in its methods 
and equipment 1s now a front line school, organized in every de- 
partment—-the largest in the county and we trust doing a good 
work for Christ and his church. Just let me digress here to say 
that my teacher was Mrs. Samuel Crawford, whose record as a 
teacher was longer than mine has been. She continued in the 
work sixty-two years till laid aside by feeble health a year previous 
to her death. Dr. Hutchison has asked me to give some of my 
experience as a teacher. To be brief will say that | have had five 
classes. First a class of boys which I taught for twelve years but 
do not remember the circumstances which brought me to the 
second class of boys. After them a class of girls who remained 
with me for several years, generally until their marriage or re- 
moval from the town. When there were only a few left they went 
into other classes and I was given a class of lively boys whom I 
enjoyed with numerous changes of personnel for about twenty 
years. The Session wrought havoc with this class by with one 
“fell swoop” taking several of my most regular scholars for Sunday 
school officers. Removals of families or individual members from 
the town and the absence of others who “had married a wife and 
therefore could not come” reduced the number and it was thought 
best to let those remaining go into other classes. All my classes 
are well represented in the different activities of the church. Two 
are in the choir, one is Sunday school superintendent, another 
church treasurer, while one or more is on each of the Boards of 
Trustees, Deacons and Elders. Men from all these classes fill posi- 
tions of usefulness and trust in our own community and their line 
reaches across the continent. A few years ago two of them were 
in Alaska. Another has a Government position in the Bureau of 
Education in the Philippine Islands. The women, as_ wives, 
mothers and home keepers, or in the business world, are doing 
their part as well. Two of them married ministers. This brings 
me to the present and my class of fine, interesting, and promising 
boys.” 


5 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning ANS: 


PAPER BY MRS. ELIZABETH BOWMAN 
SLAYMAKER 


When you hear that | remember sixty, or more years ago, be- 
fore the days of kerosene, when lard oil was used in lamps, you 
may think | am an old woman; but when you hear that once | was 
at German Lutheran Church and they had a beautiful large brass 
chandelier lighted with candles, you will feel sure of it. My 
father once said, “It is hard for an old man to realize he is an old 
man’; it 1s the same with an old woman. But, when I! look 
around and see how few are here now that were with us in the 
long ago, that 1s another story. 

My first recollection of our church, is of the one which 1s now 
Hose House No. |, and we did not have a beautiful, well-equipped 
room, but a low, dark, gloomy basement. To add to the homeli- 
ness, there were four large stoves, surrounded by sheet iron, with 
which the auditorium was heated. The floor was bare, the seats 
were high-backed pews taken from the old church, There was no 
musical instrument, but we had a good Sunday school, and good 
music, too. Mr. A. L. Robinson led the singing, and he was 
splendid. We could not help singing with him. He was enthusi- 
astic, and when excited, would sometimes stand on a chair and 
wave his arms which amused the children very much. Were he 
living today, he would be called a singing evangelist whose ser- 
vices would be sought, and well paid for, but there were no charges 
then. Everything was voluntary. Permit me to read an extract 
from Col. J. B. Finlay’s “Reminiscences’—(This will be found 
elsewhere in this history.) 

In later years, we had a large instrument which had loops on 
the sides and it was carried from the gallery in the auditorium by 
poles put through these loops, then carried back for the church 
services. 

Mr. Jack followed Mr. Robinson, and | will here pay tribute 
to Miss Jennie Jack, who so freely gave her time and her beautiful 
voice to all church services. I do not remember all who assisted, 
but Mr. “Joe” Painter led the Sunday school choir after we came 
into the new church. 

It is fifty years since | commenced to teach. My first class 
was girls, some have passed away, some are grandmothers, so you 


314. History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


see | am a Sunday school great grandmother. Four years later 
I dropped out of the work till my children were all old enough to 
attend Sunday school. | have been teaching boys for about thirty- 
five years. 

In the early eighties, the old basement was wainscoated, fres- 
coed, carpeted and seated with chairs. 

| have an autograph album presented to me by one of my boys 
in 1889, in which are the names of teachers and officers, also mem- 
bers of my class at that period, as follows: Rev. H. L. Mayers, 
pastor; Mr. George W. Doverspike, superintendent of Sunday 
school; Mr. George T. Crawford, secretary; Miss Mary Q. Sloan, 
assistant secretary; Miss Lydia M. Robinson, treasurer; and Mr. 
Richard E. Kennerdell, librarian. The teachers were Col. J. B. 
Finlay, Mr. J. A. Colwell, Mrs. Maggie B. Doverspike, Miss M. 
M. Stonecipher, Mr. Philip K. Bowman, Miss Sarah J. Bowman, 
Mrs. Virginia G. Peart, Mr. W. L. Peart, Mrs. Samuel Crawford, 
Mrs. Asenath Kennerdell, Miss Jennie E. Burnham, Miss Lydia 
M. Schotte, Miss Lizzie Stewart, Mr. Henry Bayha, Miss Mary 
J. Robinson, Mr. J. S. Bowser, Miss Jane B. Colwell, Miss Caro- 
line R. Crawford, Mr. James Martin, Mr. Findley P. Wolff, Miss 
Esther E. Sloan, Mr. Joseph Painter, Mr. R. B. Ivory and Mrs. R. 
S. Slaymaker. 

There were seven members of my class, as follows Charlie 
Weylman, Hays McDanald, Mack Rupp, Robert Brown, Horace 
R. Sloan, William Wible, Elmer E. Giles, Andy Waugaman, E. 
Taylor Hutchison, Harry Ritchart, Abram Cook, Harry Heil- 
man. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 315 


The One Hundredth Anniversary Program 
SUNDAY, AUGUST 27TH, 1922 


MORNING SERVICE 10:00 A. M. 


Organ—‘‘Spring Song” eed That menbaed.  EOllins 
Organist—Miss I]ma Fox 

Anthem—‘Grieve Not the Holy Spirit’ - - -  - Stamer 

Duet—oulbistil With Thees® ¥-)-U-. =" .-»  - = Nevin 


Mrs. Joseph Henderson and Mr. Frank J. Atkins 
Scripture Lesson—Psalm 46; Luke 14:16-24; Matt. 28:18-20 


Sermon— ‘Centennial Memories—Our History and Its Les- 
sons” - - By the Pastor, William J. Hutchison, D. D. 


Hymns—82, 286, 611 


SENDA COW Rab RV | GEe hl OOlAz Vis 


Harry J. WALTER, Superintendent 


Orchestra Prelude 
Children’s Chorus 
Prayer—Rev. Harry C. Hutchison, Shelby, Ohio 


Address—“‘The Relation of the Church and Sunday School” 
| - = Profes|ames' Fh, Ewing, of. Pittsburgh) Pa: 
Addresses by visiting pastors and friends. 


Py NIN Gro eh) Ler A ders 0020 CLOGK 


Organ Prelude—jAmeMeer™ = -9 2) = oo = = Schubert 
Prayer—Rev. E. B: Dwyer 

Anthem—‘Rejoice Greatly’ - - - - -  - Woodward 
Solo—“God Shall Wipe Away All Tears” - - - Caro Roam 


Mr. Frank J. Atkins 
Sermon—RKev. Andrew Ivory Keener, Clinton, New York 
Prayer—Rev. Lyman N. Lemmon 
Hymns—353, 554, 74 


316 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 
TUESDAY, AUGUST 29TH, 1922 


POPULAR MEETING 
8: 000P>M: 


Auspices of the Men—Hon. Wm. B. Meredith, Presiding 


Organ Prelude—“A Song of Gratitude’ - - - - - Cole 
Male Quartette 
Prayer—Rev. H. M. Carnahan 
Addresses— 
» Lhe Ghurcheong ys boynood: = se mas - 
wo tn Poe ete te COT: BWV ELLIS [z naunes Oil City, Pa. 
~The Men*and the*Sunday School’) —=— =-5 .= 
- -  - - Hon. Samuel B. Cochran, Brooklyn, N. Nf 
“The Rock from Whence Ye are Hewn”’ Prof. ee F. Ewing 
“The Young Presbyterians of America” - -  - 
re TOL ee NLL Dwolayiakery 1 ancols Neb. 
Impromptu addresses by others 
Music—Male Quartette 
Hymns—560, 498 


WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30TH, 1922 


POPULAR MEETING 
8:00 P. M. 
Auspices of the Women—Miss Juliette Robinson, Presiding 


Organ Prelude“‘Isle of Dreams”’ = le eae HOM ister 
Scripture read by Mrs. J. P. Culbertson 
Prayer—Mrs. Wm. J. Hutchison 
Anthem—‘Praise the Lord” - - - - - - - Elvy 
Addresses— 
“Presbyterian Missions” — - - mares Be 
in eee Leg eeViTS: Saath W. MeClintocke, Laurel, Mice 
Winning the West formGhnist? 9-2. us! =n cen 
- -  - Rev. Chas. H. Bierkemper, Winchester, Ida. 
Addresses by others 
Hymns—398, 409 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 317 


THURSDAY, AUGUST 31ST, 1922 
8:00 P. M. 


ONE HUNDEKEDSY EARS-OF HISTORY AND SERVICE 


Organ Prelude—‘‘Supplication” et eee ee ee me TS eT 

Prayer—Rev. Tage Tiesen | 

Anthem—‘‘The Night is Far Spent” 

Address—“Keystone State Presbyterianism’”’ - - -_ - 
Rev. Wm. R. Craig, D. D., Moderator of the Synod of Penna. 


REMINISCENCES AND FRATERNAL GREETINGS 


Rev. Robert C. Bowling, D. D. 

Reve sel OUrLy 

Rev. Walter Kennedy 

Rev. Elder D. Crawford 

Rev. Harry C. Hutchison 

Rev. Harry B. Clawson,Moderator of the Presbytery of littan- 
ning 

Hymns—810, 665 

Reception and Social Hour 


FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER IST, 1922 
8:00 P. M. 


PREPARATORY SERVICES TO THE COMMUNION 





Organ—~“Berceuse’ =. .=) eee oe = _ Kinder 
Prayer—Rev. Earl W. Terry 

Anthem—‘‘Sanctus” - - - “-. = = « = = Gounod 
Sctipiuter-ecssOn= -e-- = = © -~--.. Rev. Basil A. Murry 


Sermon—Rev. Calvin C. Hays, D. D., Moderator of the 134th 
General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. 
Solo—“Bow Down Thine Ear” - - - - - - Brahms 
Mr. Frank Atkins 
Prayer—Rev. Robt. C. Dodds, D. D. 
Hymns—321, 379 


318 — History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3D, 1922 


MORNING SERVICE, 10:00 A. M. 


Organ—‘‘Solemn Prelude” - - - - - -: =-  Faulker 
Anthem—“Art Thou Weary” - - - - - -  Schnecker 
Reception of New Members 

The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper will be Administered. 
Prayer of Dedication 

Hymns—326, 337, 292, 495 


EVENINGS ERVIGE6:00) Pais 


Organ—'‘In the Twilight” oR Ga ort on pet Ones a ET Ren 
Anthem—“Out. of the Deep” on eS an eine = VCD OTELaLE 
Solo—“O Lord Rebuke Me Not” - - - - =  Allitson 


Mrs. Jos. N. Henderson 
Sermon—Chancellor Samuel Black McCormick, D. D., University 
of Pittsburgh. 
Hymns—143, 522, 706 


OUR WELCOME:—“Our latch - string’s always 
hangin’ out for true friends old and new. Come 
inside—our hearth is wide—we've saved a place 
for vou.” 





History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 319 


SERMON DELIVERED AT THE 100TH ANNIVER- 
SARY OF THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 
KITTANNING, PA., SUNDAY, AUGUST 27, 1922. 


By Rev. Won. J. Hutcuison, D. D., Pastor 


CENTENNIAL MEMORIES =) OURS HISTORY “AND 
Seah ooUNs 


“We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us what 
work thou didst 1n times of old.’—Psalms 44:1. 


“The Lord make His people an hundred times as many more as they 
be.”—I Chron. 21:3. 


We stand today on historic ground. Around us cluster the 
memories of two hundred years or more. Both history and tradi- 
tion speak of this favored location as the home and_ hunting 
ground of the Indians for long years before the coming of the 
white man. Here dwelt the Lenni-Lenape. Their council fires 
were lighted on yonder hills. Here Cap’t Jacobs, a Sachem of 
savage might and influence, built his wigwam. Here came _ his 
neighbors, the Shawnees and representatives of the famous Six 
Nations; here he was visited by Shingas, king of the Delawares 
on important occasions of war. But their feuds are ended. They 
vanished before the pale-face like a vision of the night. Kittan- 
ning marks the site of a battle, the issues of which are far reach- 
ing in their influence on life and destinies of the nation. This 
was one of the battle grounds on which it was determined that 
the language, the laws and customs of Western America should 
be English and not French. Both the English and French gov- 
ernments claimed a large portion of the territory west of the 
Allegheny mountains. In order to establish their claim to the 
disputed region, the French stored their firearms, gun-powder, and 
provisions with Capt. Jacobs at his fort; and, allied with the 
Delawares and Shawnees, committed fearful outrages upon the 
settlers of this region. To put an end to these depredations, Lieut. 
Col. John Armstrong led an expedition against Kittanning, and by 
a victorious battle overthrew the Franco-Indian power, liberated 
many prisoners, and secured peace and happiness for the early 
home-makers in Armstrong County. 


320 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The welcome news of Col. Armstrong’s achievement soon 
spread far and wide; then our brave forefathers, with their wives 
and children placed on mounted pack saddles, wended their way, 
by “Indian Trail’, to this land of promise. Many of the first 
settlements 1n western Pennsylvania were made by the Scotch 
Irish, a brave, hardy, industrious, thrifty, independent people, 
with strong attachments for the Presbyterian faith. On coming 
to this new country they did not leave their religious convictions 
behind; they came'to make permanent homes for themselves and 
their children, and in their strong and firm faith in God, they not 
only erected altars of prayer and praise in these homes, but they 
also built Houses of Worship whither the families went up, first, 
to worship their God; and second, for moral and social advance- 
ment. I[t 1s around one of these sacred retreats, that our hearts, 
our thoughts and our words shall center this morning. As early 
as 1806, a number of persons, drawn together by their Presbyterian 
faith and calling themselves the “congregation of Kittanning” 
made application to the Presbytery of Redstone for supplies. In 
response to this application, the Rev. Joseph W. Henderson, pas- 
tor of the Ebenezer Church, Indiana County, visited this place 
on 2nd Sunday of June and preached a sermon to the infant con- 
eregation. So far as the record shows, Mr. Henderson was the 
first minister to hold divine services in Kittanning. During the 
following sixteen years, the Presbytery appointed various clergy- 
men laboring within its bounds to visit and conduct the public 
worship of the congregation, and to perform such other ministerial 
duties as the field required. In May, 1822, Mr. Thomas Davis 
came to Kittanning by appointment of Presbytery; he seems to 
have made a most favorable impression on the community, and 
the Presbyterian people became desirous of organizing a church, 
and of calling the young minister to the pastorate. As he was 
only a Licentiate, he invited Rev. John Andrews to officiate 1n the 
organization of the church. Accordingly on Sunday, August 31, 
1822, divine services were held in the Court House, on the corner 
of Market and Jefferson Streets, and after a sermon by Mr. Davis, 
Rev. John Andrews formally organized the First Presbyterian 
Church of Kittanning, with twenty-two members. Messrs. David 
Johnston, Thomas Hamilton and John Patrick were installed as 
ruling elders, and on the following day, September Ist, the Sacra- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 321 


ment of the Lord’s Supper was observed. The first call made, 
was for Mr. Thomas Davis, for one-half of his time at an annual 
salary of $200. This call was not accepted as Mr. Davis was led 
to locate elsewhere within the bounds of the Presbytery of Red- 
stone. It is worthy of notice that the third pastor of the church, 
Rev. Dr. Thomas Davis Ewing was a namesake of the Rev. 
Thomas Davis. 


The last of the charter membership to depart this life was Mrs. 
Susannah Johnston Barnett; she remained in active membership 
of another church until the day of her death, April 30, 1879, in the 
98th year of her age. The lineal descendants of at least four of 
those original members are actively indentified in the worship and 
work of the congregation at the present time. It is indeed a 
memorable event which we commemorate today. “Our fathers 
have told us what work thou didst in times of old.” They built 
more wisely than they knew. The noble little band of 22 has 
grown in one hundred years into a congregation of more than a 
thousand. In round numbers three thousand persons have been 
received into the membership of the church, two-thirds of the 
number in the last thirty-seven years, and one-third, or the last 
thousand, have united with the church in the past fourteen years. 
When the church was organized, the services were held in the 
Court House. 


In the century four buildings have been erected and dedicated 
to the worship of God, the first in 1830 and the present one in 1911; 
the first at a cost of $1,500.00, the present one at approximately 
$150,000.00, and at the present cost of labor and materials, it is 
estimated that this edifice could not be replaced under $250,000.00. 
Let us not underestimate the work which our fathers did in faith 
and prayer that August day one hundred years ago. They laid 
deep and firm a foundation on the everlasting Rock of Ages upon 
which it has been our sacred privilege to build. Let us recall the 
times and conditions under which they lived and labored. The 
retrospect may serve to awaken our gratitude, inspire us with hope 
and confidence, and teach us valuable lessons for the future. 

One hundred years ago, the American union consisted of 
twenty-four states, all lying east of the Mississippi river with the 
exception of Missour1 which had been admitted as a state the 
previous year. The population of the United States was 10,000,000 


322. ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


and James Monroe was President of the United States. The 
second war of Independence was brought to an end seven years be- 
fore and the country was arising from the disastrous effects of the 
same. Three years before the first steamship had crossed the 
Atlantic from Savannah to Liverpool, but the wonders of steam 
locomotion had not dawned upon the world, for no steamboat 
had yet plowed the Allegheny’s waters, and not a mile of railroad 
had been laid in all this land. It was the day of the stage coach, 
of the floating raft, and the saddle horse. The tallow dip lighted 
the home and served to dispel the darkness for the evening service 
if one should be held. The pulpit was an inverted box, the seats 
were rude benches with unimproved backs, the floors were bare, 
and the windows of unstained glass. The music was led by a 
precentor for the church organ had not yet made its advent to 
disturb the peace of a single congregation. The moral condition 
of the communities was the cause of widespread dismay in those 
times. It looked to good people as if the foundations of social 
order were going to destruction. As a result of the aid which 
France rendered in the Revolutionary War, strong sympathy for 
that country was felt; even the influences of French morals and 
infidelity were widespread. Atheism was bold and defiant. 
Christians grew weak in their own eyes and sought help from the 
Lord. But out of the darkness a new day was dawning. Great 
moral questions began to agitate the minds of Christian people as 
a revival of religion swept through the land. If men were bold in 
sin, other men became bold in stating their religious convictions. 
One hundred years ago the viciousness of dueling was freely con- 
demned; the church was being awakened to the sin of human 
slavery. These questions have been settled for all time, but now 
as then great moral questions confront us, they too will be settled 
and forgotten only when they have been settled aright. This 
church, rendered a loyal and patriotic service in the Great Re- 
bellion—those who sympathized with the South found it best 
to withdraw from its membership; again in the Great World 
War, this congregation responded with alacrity to every patriotic 
call; its pastor and more than seventy of its men saw service 1n 
the various branches of the Nation’s military forces. We rejoice 
today that through all the strife and vicissitudes of a hundred 
years, 1t has never been untrue to the faith of the fathers, 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 328 


or to any great moral or patriotic duty. It has never gone back 
at any time from its polity, doctrine or discipline. 

We have been sometimes represented as almost too deep a blue 
for the current of public thought of the world, and as standing so 
straight that we bend over backward. But there is nothing in all 
this for which we need to blush in an age so rife with frantic ef- 
forts to eliminate all trace of the supernatural from the works and 
word of God, and all semblances of moral restraint over human 
selfishness and greed. We rejoice that it has been ours to see 
public opinion in many things coming to our way of thinking, 
rather than out trucking to the whims of a godless age. 

From this church has gone forth a host to publish the glad 
news of salvation and to let their light shine before the world, de- 
vout men and women, missionaries of the Cross, preachers, teach- 
ers, lawyers, physicians, noble souls born here and born again 
into the everlasting kingdom of our God. Some are still here giv- 
ing their best, some are active in other churches here, and else- 
where throughout the length and breadth of the nation. Then 
there is a great cloud of the glorified that have gone up from these 
courts after toil and prayer, after the tenderness of this friendly 
communion, the thrilling touch of heart to heart, of ordinance and 
privilege, in smiles and tears—gone through the gates of the 
Eternal City to walk the streets of gold and to strike glad hands 
by the River of Life. The four former pastors have long been 
gone, and have often met in session with the elders of other years 
and with the members of their former congregations. Some have 
left us only as it were but yesterday. We miss their familiar 
faces, grasp of their warm hands, and their words of cheer. And 
here we stand gazing after them, and saying with the poet, 


“Oh, for the touch of a vanished hand, 
The sound of a voice now still.” 


For a hundred years the doorways of this church have been 
thronged by those who have felt the need of God in their lives 
and have come here to pray; for a hundred years the unsearchable 
riches of Christ crucified for sinners has been faithfully preached; 
and for a hundred years through sunshine and rain, in peace and 
war, this church has been in touch with the moving masses of 
mankind. Who then can begin to measure the good or weigh the 
influence of these men now silent as the years? This much we 
know, they have been the very salt of this community; the mould- 


324 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


ing influences for righteousness which have long outlived their 
generation. Stern may have been the morals, exacting their 
theology, puritanical their ideas, but these are the forces that have 
evermore made the true men and women of the ages, the true 
patriots and philanthropists of the world, heroes and heroines for 
God and truth, despite the jeers of the vulgar crowd. 


Such is the service rendered by religious men, Christian men, 
to our country and to the world! This dear old church has been 
in such a service for a hundred years, keeping equal pace with the 
life of our city and the nation. May we not look back today with 
joy and wonder and with special thanksgiving to Almighty God! 
And shall not our most earnest prayer ascend to the throne in the 
devout words of Joab of old, “The Lord make his people an hun- 
dred times so many more than they ber” And in giving voice to 
this desire, Wwe remember that the efficiency of any church 1s not 
measured by the length of its roll, or the wealth it commands, so 
much as by the spirit in which we preach and practice the doc- 
trines of the Nazarene, that divine and God-sent teacher of the 
human race. 

These pioneers who planted here a vine and watered it with 
their tears, and digged about its roots while bending on_ their 
knees, knew not the significance of what they were doing; even 
yet they know but little of what they did; nor will they know the 
extent thereof, until the last weary soul fainting under the burden 
of sin, and hungering for the grapes of Eshcol, shall rest beneath 
its sheltering bowers and find in it an arbor leading into the door- 
way of heaven’s eternal home. Eternity alone can tell the bless- 
ings which this church has conferred in the past. What shall the 
future ber That depends upon us. Standing, therefore, by this 
centennial mile-post, and looking back upon what our fathers have 
done for the church, the nation, and the world, shall we not be in- 
spired with quiet, confidence and lion-like courage? If they under 
their limited circumstances and confronted by conditions of 
abounding vice and corrupt philosophy, built so largely and so 
wisely through faith in Christ, how much more should we through 
faith in His Namer But our fathers not only worked and en- 
dured with a mighty hope and invincible patience to establish a 
kingdom, but they labored to instruct younger hands and minds 
more alert to carry forward the good work when they must lay 


bo 
Wn 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 3 





it down. They brought their children and their children’s chil- 
dren up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. We too must 
seek to lead our sons and daughters into the kingdom and train 
others to carry on when our sun shall go down. In all my personal 
experiences in connection with this church nothing for which | am 
more grateful, nothing for which I more earnestly and more de- 
voutly thank God, than for our Christian young people, our sons 
and daughters, and for their love and loyalty to Christ and His 
church. 

Before we turn away from this centennial mile-stone, let us read 
the inscriptions carved thereon. On one side | read, “God reigns.” 
No one, 1t seems to me, can read this history without the conviction 
that through all the feverish stirrings and agitations, of the com- 
ings and goings of the laborers in the vineyard, there has been an 
unseen hand that has been weaving out the web of its destiny. 
“The longer I live,” said Benjamin Franklin, “the more convincing 
proofs do | see that God governs in the affairs of men. I firmly 
believe that ‘Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain 
that build it’.” 


On another side of the mile-post there 1s engraved these words, 
“Beware,” said God to the Hebrews, “lest thou forget the Lord that 
brought thee out of the land of Egypt, and say, my power and 
the might of my hand hath gotten me this wealth.” Israel did 
forget. And their history from henceforth 1s a chapter of disas- 
ters. Ignore God; reject the Bible; expunge the Lord’s Day; en- 
throne wealth; trample down the poor; and consume your wealth 
on selfish pleasures and pastimes, and the future history of this 
church can be written in one word, “Ichabod.” The glory has 
departed from Israel. Before us, my brethren, is a page white 
and beautiful; on it we may write a glorious page of history the 
light of which shall never fade, but shall flash upon the farthest 
shores of time. God waits to help; the Holy Spirit touch your 
hand as you write; and the name of the Son shall be glorified. By 
the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, it is within our power to make 
this church of a hundred years, a glory and a benediction through 
all the coming years. Are you willing, brethren, just here and 
now to dedicate yourselves to this noble task? God help us to do 
it; giving us his own Blessed Holy Spirit, and making us “able to 
comprehend with all saints, what is the breadth and length and 


326. ~—— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


depth and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth 
knowledge, that we may be filled with all the fullness of God. 
Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all 
that we can ask or think, according to the power that worketh in 
us, unto Him be glory in the Church by Jesus Christ, throughout 
all ages, world without end.” 


“Go forth! firm faith in every heart, 
Bright hope on every helm; 

Through that shall pierce no fiery dart, 
And tiis no fear o’ erwhelm. 

Go in the spirit and the might 
Of bim who led the way, 

Close with the legions of the night, 
Ye children of the day.” 


The Centennial 


. *, 
+< << > emo 


The Centennial of this Church was celebrated during the week 
of August 27, to September 3, 1922. On .Sunday morning Dr. 
Hutchison preached a historical sermon. This service was follow- 
ed by the regular session of Sunday school, at which addresses 
mweresmade Dyelroi,|> F Ewing,.ofs Pittsburghs.kKev. Dr. Ee. iM. 
Wherry, a retired missionary from India; Rev. C. H. Bierkemper, 
of Idaho, and William Mervin, a student at Western Theological 
Seminary, who was a member of this church. The service closed 
after the pastor had made some remarks, showing the develop- 
ment of the school since its organization in 1818 to the present 
time. The first superintendent was Alexander Colwell, whose 
great grand-daughter, Margaret Clayland, 1s in the school today. 

In the absence of Rev. Andrew Ivory Keener who was on the 
program for the service, Rev. Harry C. Hutchison, of Shelby, 
Ohio, preached at the evening service. (His sermon could not be 
obtained for this history. ) 

Tuesday evening’s meeting was a sort of “love-feast,” presided 
over by Hon. W. B. Meredith, the oldest baptized member of this 
church. He introduced the speech-making and was followed by 
Gen. Willis Hulings, of Oil City, whose subject was “The Church 
of My Boyhood.” The next speaker was Hon. Samuel B. Coch- 
ran, of New York City, who spoke on “The Men and the Sunday 
School.”’ Prof. James F. Ewing came next with an address upon 
the topic “The Rock Whence Ye are Hewn.” The closing address 
was given by Prof. Philip kK. Slaymaker, a member of the faculty 
of Nebraska State University. He spoke on “The Young Pres- 
byterians of America.” All of these men were connected with this 
Church at one time. 

Wednesday evening was given over to the Women’s Mission- 
ary Societies. The speakers were Mrs. Rebecca Ewing McClintock 
and Rev. Charles Bierkemper, both products of this church. The 
former presented the subject from her experience as a Foreign Mis- 
sionary, the latter from the viewpoint of a Home Missionary. 


328 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Thursday, August 31, was the real birthday and was celebrated 
appropriately. Letters and messages from former members and 
friends who could not be present were read as follows: 


WESTERN UNION TELEGRAM 


Los Angeles, California, 
AURa opr lee 
Dr. Wm. J. Hutchison, 
Kittanning, Pa. 


Received kind invitation. Congratulations and greetings from 
California. Regret that we cannot be with you in person but will 
be with you in thought. May the peace of God abide with you 
now and forever. 


Mrs. A. E. P. BRown AND Mrs. H. L. Mayers. 


320 5. hlarvardeblya: 
August 21, 1922. 


Rev. W. J. Hutchison, 
Weataol Ge 


Greeting to you and your congregation and my warm con- 
gratulations. Doubtless | am almost forgotten but in that church 
(altho’ 1n old building) I was baptized, had my first Communion 
and was married. Most precious are the memories of my father’s 
faithful service and my mother’s kindly acts, to the sick and 
afflicted! 

May God who has thus far blessed you be with you to the end! 

Mr. Gates joins me in congratulations. 

In love and service for our common Lord. 


Sincerely yours, 


(Mrs. JOHN) Mary I. GATEs 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 329 
Fellsmere, Florida, August 22nd, 1922. 


Rev. William J. Hutchison, D. D., 


Kittanning, Pennsylvania. 


Beloved Pastor :-— 


The grand time has come; The Century is ended; the great 
Centennial Exercises, “In Memoriam” are at hand; but who rises 
to recount the words, deeds and influences of 100-past years; or 
who is there to prophesy what will be in the coming Century of 
the First Presbyterian Church of Kittanningr How great she has 
erown; how much done for the Master; what joy, peace and love 
has been found within her gates; what life and light has shown 
forth to comfort and bless in zones far and near; what of the 
“Broadcasting” of the Blessed and Priceless Gospel Message, in 
the years to come; will it be only an organization mainly for self 
profit, or a real part of the great, living organism of which Christ 
is the Head and His Spirit the Powerr 

It may not be known to all the First Church folks that away 
down 1n Florida, within the Great Golden Belt of the Indian River 
District, there 1s a humble little receiving station to catch and dis- 
seminate some of the sweet influence from the Home Church 
Radio; to so receive, speak, and act in accord as to bring no re- 
proach upon that old, blessed “Grand-Mother Church,” of which 
we are indeed loyally proud; we truly hope and pray, that even in 
her advanced years she may, even as our renowned seeker, Ponce- 
de-Leon, not only seek for, but actually find the “Fountain of 
Perpetual Youth” and drink deeply of its restoring waters, until 
her influence and power shall not only be realized away down here 
in the land of Sunshine and Flowers, but may bring these to the 
darkest and farthest places of the Earth. Our prayer is that the 
Lord may bless her Beloved Pastor, her Session and_ Officers, 
Members, Homes, and functions in person and labors and bring 
all safely to the Heaven of Eternal Rest to abide with Our Saviour 
and Redeemer forever. 

Mrs. Ivory and I join with you in spirit and deeply regret that 
we cannot be there to grasp the glad hands of welcome, to hear and 
see and taste of the good things you will enjoy. Affairs here pre- 
vent our going and it is hard to bear the deprivation. Kindly re- 


330 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


member us to all fellow members and friends. We beg to remain 
ever, 
Fraternally and sincerely yours in Christ, 


Mrs. LettTiE R. AND ALFRED L. Ivory. 


On Vacation, Big Moose, New York, Aug. 23, 1922. 


My dear Doctor Hutchison and Fellow Workers in the Old 
Church :— 


A sudden change of plans has placed Mrs. Keener and myself 
in the Adirondacks for our vacation instead of at Slate Lick, as we 
had expected. And so you will be spared a sermon from me, but 
| cannot refrain from sending a few words of congratulation and 
reminiscence to you and the old church on actually beginning a 
second century of history. 

Even to one not so personally concerned as |, these anniver- 
saries are of keen interest with strangely mingled facts. I never 
saw the first records of the Kittanning Church but | did carefully 
read the minutes of the first church I served, then celebrating its 
one hundred twenty-fifth anniversary. I had a little thrill at 
noting this in the little old book:——““For some time we have been 
prevented from holding Communion Services by the incursions 
of the savages.”” And on the yellow old pages of the Church 
where now I serve, under date of 1796 I read the bill of expenses 
for the new Church. They included this item:—‘‘To one case of 
rum for raising of the Church, $56.00”. Well “the world do 
move” and forward. 

When a great monarch of the forest is fallen and you count 
the many rings that picture the passing springs and winters, a 
strange sense of dignity gathers in the mind. Surely there 1s 
something stately and impressive in the one hundred years’ growth 
of such a Church as this—and best of all the monarch is not 
fallen, but is ever widening its shade. 

As I let my memory run, strangely mingled recollections come. 
Some of them are far from pleasant. For example, there was a 
stage when | found it necessary, as a little chap, to kick the seat 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 33] 


in front of our pew so frequently and vigorously that its occu- 
pant had to state her intention of moving beyond my reach. Mr. 
Mayers greatly deprecated his own attainments as a Minister and 
as a Christian and yet, what a great hearted big brother he always 
was. | really never knew any Pastor but him. When at the 
time of our financial reverse | nearly gave up college, he urged 
and urged me to fight on. And shortly before his death he wrote 
me such an inspiring letter on my finishing my course at W. & J. 


Mr. Doverspike was the Sunday School Superintendent during 
all the years of my boyhood. “I am a part of all that | have met’”’ 
is so true of us all. But how true it is that Mr. Doverspike built 
his loyal, devoted, gentlemanly self, into the lives of hundreds of 
us. 

There must have been many times when (Miss Burnham) 
“Miss Jennie” (as we loved to call her), went home in tears after 
we boys in her Sunday School class had knocked her lesson plan 
into the proverbial “cocked hat.’ Little did she realize what a 
tremendous grip she had on our lives and how much her smile 
Sundays and on the streets meant to us boys. 


Like all other Churches, ours has always had many who had 
never found the Master in any intimate sweetness. Yet now, as 
| look around the church in memory, | see standing very tall and 
beautiful, stalwart Christians whose lives to me as a boy were 
majestic and convinced me for all time of the power of the Lord. 

It would be pleasant to let my pen out a bit concerning my 
own contemporaries, but my feeling is that we are as yet too de- 
void of gray hair to make that a fitting thing. And yet, some of 
even my juvenile years, are already devoid of any hazr at all. 

| am letting myself think for a moment of the stages of 
spiritual growth that came to me under the ministry of the Church. 

Mother has told me of how on a cold winter’s day she and 
father hurried to carry the red-haired boy, carefully bundled, to 
Church, that Dr. Ewing’s revered hands might consecrate his life 
in baptism to God. (Just a few days before Dr. Ewing left 
Kittanning). The time when | repeated the one hundred seven 
answers of the Shorter Catechism to Mr. Mayers is a little hazy, 
but I am still very proud of the Bible | received. 

| often recall the time when as a lad of nine | appeared before 
the Session for entrance to the Church. How almost paralyzed 


JZ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


I was before the Elders who, to me, seemed as patriarchal as 
Moses. [| had asked my mother to go with me, so fearful I was. 


The occasional Evangelistic Campaigns left clear recollections 
—the one conducted by Mr. Smiley most of all; and that might 
be summed up in the song it popularized among us: “A Little 
Talk with Jesus Makes it Right, All Right.” 


My great regret is that someone might not have realized more 
clearly my battle of the middle and late teens and led me then 
into the new manhood’s experience with Christ that my ignorance 
delayed. Often I used to listen to Mr. Mayers as he told the experi- 
ence of such a sinner as Jerry McAuley and actually longed that 
I might have sinned like him that | might have found such a 
Christ. Little did I then realize the invitation: “Behold I stand 
at the door and knock. If any man will open unto me | will 
come in unto him and banquet (literal translation) with him and 
he with me.” 


And now, I, myself, for nearly eighteen years have been preach- 
ing the everlasting gospel of the glorious Christ. I tremble as I 
step out of my door upon my high rostrum that any one mere 
man should be asked to assume so critical a post. And yet God 
has blest my Ministry to others, first of all blessing me, burning 
out the dross and leading me, often times through pain, into 1n- 
creasing intimacy with Himself—‘‘Sweeter as the years go by.” 

Many of you will remember that the celebrated Evangelist, 
B. Fay Mills, after leaving the Evangelical Church and search- 
ing to the utmost the possibilities of all other world faiths, return- 
ed humbly to the Church of his fathers. He told how he had 
scourged the Church for its crime and for its frailties, then said, 
“But in spite of all this which [ still do hold against the Church, | 
realize that potentially she is the greatest organization in all the 
world.” 

We all belong to eight or ten clubs, and every now and then 
launch a new one to promote some notion that is the mode of the 
hour. Yet, | note in my experience that only the causes that 
build upon the old Church really keep on and on. Of her it may 
well be said, “Men may come and men may go, but / go on for- 
ever.” 

Dear Doctor Hutchison and Old Friends in the Kittanning 
Church, I bid you on this memorable occasion, standing upon your 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 333 


Victories in the past, to set as your motto:—‘‘The Best is Yet to 
Dew 

Often the solemnizing thought comes to me—‘This Church | 
call mine and whose destiny | partly shape is not really mine but 
His” and the quiet challenge whispers—“What will you do with 
my Church and for my Churcher” I| would have my answer that 
of Isaiah:—“Here am I Lord, send me, send me.” 


With heartiest good wishes and congratulations to all, 


ANDREW I. KEENER. 


Auge29,419272. 
First Presbyterian Church, 


Kittanning, Penn’a. 


Brethren :—Regretting my inability to attend your “Centen- 
nial Celebration”, | shall take the pleasure of forwarding greet- 
ings and of acknowledging my indebtedness to you. 

The favorable impressions and memory of some of your ser- 
vices which | attended during my boyhood days still remain 
vividly before me. I want to make mention of the kind assistance 
given me by Dr. Mayers in getting my bearings in life and in de- 
ciding for the ministry. The generosity of your Session in grant- 
ing me the use of your scholarship through my three years in the 
Seminary, 1s deeply appreciated. The courtesy and help of your 
present pastor, Dr. Hutchison, during my course in the Seminary 
and through my examinations by the Presbytery, will be long re- 
membered. In these expressions, | am sure | am voicing the feel- . 
ings of my Brother, Fulton, of Tecumseh, Mich. 

Praying that “Learning from the past—looking toward the 
future’ you may continue to build “upon the foundation of the 
apostles, and prophets, Jesus Christ being the chief corner stone,” 
I am 

Yours in the work of the Lord, 


Roy M. KIsKADDON. 


334 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


August 23, 1922 
Rev. W. J. Hutchison, D. D., 
Kittanning, Penna. 


Dear Doctor Hutchison: 


I have noted with keen interest that your church is soon to 
celebrate its Centennial Anniversary. As the former pastor of a 
neighbor Kittanning church and enjoying the personal friendship 
of many of your people, kindly permit me to extend to you, my 
hearty congratulations. In the hundred years of its existence the 
Kittanning Presbyterian Church has been a-never-failing fountain 
of blessing and inspiration. Not only to those whose names have 
been enrolled in its membership, but to the entire community, as 
well as to many lands beyond the sea. May its prosperity and 
its ability to serve be constantly increased with the passing years. 


Sincerely yours, 


Harry L. CHALFANT. 


Addresses were made by Revs. R. C. Bowling, Walter Kennedy, 
E. D. Crawford, A. E. Curry, and H. B. Clawson, Moderator of 
Presbytery. Every former pastor except Rev. Mr. Campbell was 
represented. Dr. Painter by his son Joseph (who gave some rem- 
Iniscences); Dr. Ewing by his daughter, Mrs. McClintock and his 
son, whom we used to call “Jay”; and Dr. Mayers by his grand- 
daughter, Elizabeth Mayers. One feature of this evening’s pro- 
gram was reading the names of the original members whose des- 
cendants were asked to rise as the names were called. A _ large 
number responded, a few of whom have been in this church all 
_ their lives. Two in the line of descent were Mrs. Mary Graham 
Mead, of Uniontown, who sang a solo, accompanied by Paul 
Copley, Jr., of Wilkinsburg. Mrs. Mead is descended from three 
charter members of the church. Paul Copley from two of the 
same line. 

After the exercises in the auditorium every one present was 
invited to a social gathering in the basement. Tables were set in 
the dining room and drill room at which light refreshments were 
served. Visiting clergymen gave impromptu talks. A huge birth- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 330 


day cake, when unveiled showed 100 lighted candles upon it. The 
cake was cut by the presidents of the Woman’s Union and Indus- 
trial Circle and tiny pieces were distributed as souvenirs. 

The speaker on Friday evening was Rev. C. C. Hays, Modera- 
tor of the General Assembly, who preached a fine sermon, closing 
with an exhortation in regard to the clebration of the Communion 
on the coming Lord’s Day. 

On Sunday morning, September 3, the Communion was cele- 
brated. In the evening the sermon was delivered by Chancellor 
S. B. McCormick, of the University of Pittsburgh. 


SUNDAY SCHOOL SERVICE, AUGUST 27, 1922 
11:00 A. M. 


Harry J. WALTER, Superintendent 


Orchestra Prelude 


Hymns No. 192 and No. 267 by Church Quartette and Sunday 
School 


Prayer—By Rev. Harry C. Hutchison, Shelby, Ohio 
Hymn No. 232 


Address—‘“The Relation of the Church and Sunday School” 
pe ae 2-1 Prof.) James-b Ewing,.of Pittsburgh, Pa, 


Dr. Hutchison suggested to me that I should tell you some of 
the work of this Sunday School when I was present in class when 
I was eight years old. I remember that it was in the old church 
located on Jefferson Street, and as | walked past the other day | 
saw a sign on the door—‘Fire Department’’—so it is no longer 
used as a Sunday School room. I remember the equipment and 
surroundings were very different from the surroundings and equip- 
ment we have here. It would be a joy to use our imagination, 
rather than our memories, of the work which has been done by a 
Sunday School like this for a period of one hundred years. 
There have been more than five thousand meetings of this Sunday 
School during that time. 

If we can imagine a painting of all those who have attended 
this Sunday School during a period of one hundred years, what a 


730 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


wonderful painting it would be. But this is a picture of the differ- 
ent sessions which this Sunday School has had. If those of each 
department would meet together with one series of pictures we 
would have a series of pictures representing the lives of those who 
gathered to study the word of God. The kind words which they 
have spoken, the sorrowful hearts which they have cheered, I would 
that we could get some idea of the work which a Sunday School 
like this has done in the period of one hundred years. 

A Sunday School like this which is engaged in the work as it 
has been engaged in during this time represents what has been 
called the Teaching Ministry of the Church. It comes from the 
exercise of different teaching ministries. When Jesus gave his 
great command to his disciples, such as in Matthew’s Gospel, “Go 
ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of 
the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, teaching them whatsoever | 
have commanded,” Jesus refers twice in that command, to the ne- 
cessity of the Teaching Ministries of the Church and so on 
throughout the whole history of the Old and New Testament. In 
the Book of Deuteronomy this same teaching is imparted. And 
so we find through the whole Bible that when the people began 
to neglect the study of the Law of God, we find a decline in their 
religious life and when they held a revival that revival came from 
a renewed study of the Law of God and of the Bible. After that 
the Jews were carried away into captivity and so the people, dur- 
ing that time, became negligent of the study of God’s Word and 
when some of them went back to Jerusalem and they asked Ezra 
to teach them the Law of God and we find that they gathered all 
the people together and explained to them the meaning of the 
Reformation, which we know grew out of a renewed study of the 
law of God in order that the work of the Church should be carried 
on for a period of one hundred years, and teaching the law of God 
is the only method which God has given to us to carry on his 
work. 

So I wish you would think of the application of this to the 
one hundred years in which this Sunday School has been in ex- 
istence, think of how much the message has been carried from 
One person to another. This is the Missionary meaning of a Sun- 
day School. 


The influence which has centered here has been carried from 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning on 


Kittanning to all parts of the world and more have heard of the 
Gospel everywhere because of the influence and the inspiration 
which has started here for others to carry to other parts of the 
world. 

We can help by our gifts and by our prayers as reaching out 
from this center to the farthest parts of the world because of the 
message which has been taught here. 


There is another feature of this work of the Sunday School 
and that is to provide a greater understanding of the Law of God 
and Will of God. The Presbyterian Church has always laid great 
emphasis on education. It has always believed that our faith 
should be intelligent faith, a reason for its existence, so in our 
Sunday School work we lay emphasis on this point, that our faith 
should be intelligent. The meaning of the message as 1t comes to 
us in One of Paul’s passages runs something like this—‘“‘I know 
whom I have believed and am pursuaded that he is able to keep 
that which I’ve committed, unto Him against that day.’ The 
knowledge which Paul had, the understanding of the faith which 
Paul had, is the understanding and the issue which all Christians 
should have when they have an intelligent faith and not a blind 
faith. And still another thing, and that 1s that we should become 
acquainted with the Gospel and have an intelligent idea of the 
Gospel and take it and make it a part of our lives. And again, 
the idea of decision and will power. I wish that everyone should 
be able to stand up and say “I will accept Jesus Christ as my 
personal Saviour, I will tell others about his Gospel and do what 
I can to spread his Gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth”. 
As it applies to the Church I wish you would think for a moment 
in your imagination how many during one hundred years have 
not only learned of the Gospel but have been faithful followers 
and disciples of Jesus Christ now as it was during the time that 
He was in the world. He devoted a great part of his time to 
training these disciples and giving them an intelligent idea of the 
Gospel. The greatest part was in training these disciples to leave 
all and follow him, to bring them to the point of decision and 
abandon all else and follow Him. 

In their lives there came a time when a good many of those 
who had professed to be His followers, turned away from Him and 
Jesus set to work to find out whether or not they were willing to 


338 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


leave all and follow Him and Simon Peter gave his remarkable 
answer— ‘To whom shall we go for Thou alone hast the words of 
eternal life.” 


Anthem by Church Quartette 
Address—Rev. Dr. E. M. Wherry, a retired Missionary from India 


It is an inspiring sight to see this Sunday School. It reminds 
me of some of our great India Sunday School conventions. You 
would be delighted if you could only see the Sunday School of 
five hundred or a thousand Hindu and Mohammedan boys. We 
don’t have the boys and girls in the same Sunday School class. 
They think the girls are no good and I don’t believe there are as 
many girls as there are boys. 

When I went to India fifty-five years ago there were no Sunday 
Schools in that country. The great educators of the Church re- 
gard the Sunday School as an important education for all the 
Christians. The children of India are taught very much the same 
as we are, under the personal direction of the teacher, to a few 
members concerning the things for which the Church stands. 


Address by Chas. H. Bierkemper 


I do not know how much to say, but since sometime about ten 
days ago and this morning, that Dr. Hutchison met me, | have 
lost nearly one hundred years and | want youto help me find 
them. 

About ten days ago | was on a long trip over the mountains 
and our neighbor has a little girl about three years old. We have 
no children and she comes over to our house to play. One day 
while | was away the little girl came over to visit us, she often 
brings her dolls or comes into the house and plays with the blocks. 
While I was away she didn’t say a word and when she wanted to 
go home she said, ‘““go mamma” so when she went home she says, 
“boys gone’, then when | came here, Dr. Hutchison saw me and 
he says, “I want you to sit with the Elders’, now, where do | be- 
longr So you see | have lost about one hundred years and have 
had no sleep for a week until last night. 

My first recollection of the Sunday School, in connection with 
the Presbyterian Church, was on Jefferson Street and Mr. Shadle 
was Superintendent. That was my first introduction to the Pres- 
byterian Sunday School in this town, but in our section I wish to 
show you that the old teaching that we received here from my 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 339 


sainted teacher and others, is not forgotten in the section in which 
we live. [ think I have made this remark different times here 
before, and | am in a new territory again. It is not impossible 
to find young men and young women twenty and twenty- 
five years of age who have never been in Sunday School 
and have them tell you why it is a glorious State. At 
Winchester all the co-operative leagues maintain a_ sec- 
tion made sacred for the splendid work of such men as Rev. 
James Spaulding and Marcus Whitman. In their work among 
the Indians they are taking that whole section for Jesus Christ. 
When that section was first open for settlement, a large number 
of people who knew nothing about Jesus Christ or else forgot it 
all, desired to run away from the teachings of a Sunday School. 

Since being in that section it has been my desire to bring 
about some organization or arrangement in which the Sunday 
School should have its own special work. Nearly two years ago 
| suggested a Sunday School and really it was somewhat looked 
down upon, but after a while the people seemed to get awake and 
now we have a Sunday School. The Sunday school is within 
less than five minutes walk of our home and is situated in a beau- 
tiful park and right beyond this park is a lake. In the park 
there is” a large yellow “pine tree’ some five’or six feet in 
diameter. We had a two weeks tent meeting, taking the old tent 
from the Indians which they used in their annual gatherings, so 
we invited all the people of the various Sunday Schools in that 
county and on the23rd of July we had a gathering of at least five 
or six hundred people. 

Let us remember and show to the world that this land was 
made sacred by such noble lives as Marcus Whitman and Rev. 
james Spaulding and later on by the wonderful McBeth sisters and 
who now are followed by their nieces, Miss Mazie Crawford, and 
her sister, among the Indians and that we, as white people, shall 
not forget the faith of our fathers. 


Address by Mr. .Merwin 


It is for me to say that | am very glad to be here this morning, 
but as I stand here | see in my memory two pictures. One, when 
I first joined this church about twelve or thirteen years ago. | 
remember that the Church was being erected and we were holding 
Sunday School in the Hose House. We used to come up here and 


340 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


walk the beams and then as | listened to Dr. Hutchison’s address 
this morning | looked into this picture of the past one hundred 
years of this Church and | saw the splendid progress it has made 
in the past years, the great work which has been done by the 
splendid people of this Church and community, but when I got 
up to talk I felt a little like Pat when he went to the Priest. He 
told the Priest that he had committed a great crime and the Priest 
said to him, “Why, what is it Pate” and Pat said, “Well, now 
father, the other day I was in my back yard working and finally | 
kissed my neighbor’s wife over the back fence.” The Priest said, 
“Pat, that is a very great wrong, but how often did you kiss her?” 
and Pat said, ““Well now, father, | am here to confess and not to 
boast,” so that is a lot the way I| feel about this event at this time. 

Friends, we are all glad to be here I know, but this is a critical 
time. To look into this picture of which | have just spoken and 
see the splendid work which has been done, we may call that the 
past and that at the present we are here, that you have done 
splendid work which 1s worthy of being boasted of but we are not 
here only to boast and not only to confess. 

The next picture that | see is not that picture of the past but 
the picture whose frame is my hopes for this Church. The pic- 
ture 1s to be painted by the boys and girls that we see here today. 
There is one thing that I see in this splendid progress that I like 
very much but could like better. I see where this Church has sent 
ten young men into the Gospel Ministry and one young woman 
into the foreign fields. That is fine, but it should be better still. 

I want to tell you of our Seminary in Pittsburgh. On the 19th 
of March when the young men came in there to study for the 
ministry, there were only about ten or twelve or fifteen. Would 
that God would wake us up to our responsibility of a Christian 
people and may we see our duty and may we have more Chris- 
tian homes and pray that through our young men and young wo- 
men we may continue the work of the Christian Church. 


Address by Dr. Hutchison. 


We have surely enjoyed the remarks that have been made and 
I wish to say just a little more about the one hundred years of 
the history of this Sunday School. The Sunday School had its 
beginning in a Union Sunday School organized in the old Court 
House that stood on the ground on which Mr. Gault’s store now 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 34] 


stands. In 1818, the date of its organization, the first superin- 
tendent was Alexander Colwell, who was well known in this com- 
munity and whose descendants are in the community today. We 
have in our Sunday School a great grandchild of Alexander Col- 
well, the first superintendent of the first Sunday School, Margaret 
Clayland. J. E. Brown was the first secretary. 

In 1859 the Sunday School had sort of gone back, there wasn’t 
a very great deal of interest taken in it and there were only thirty- 
five in the Sunday School, officers, teachers, and all, but at that 
time there came to the superintendency a man who made his influ- 
ence felt in this church and community, J. B. Finlay, a minister 
and a lawyer, and at that time they introduced the first organ, the 
first musical instrument in the Sunday School. 

In 1864 we had one hundred sixty in the Sunday School. In 
1890, two hundred forty, in 1908, four hundred forty enrolled and 
then, of course, we had the burning of the Church and that 
brought the enrollment down to about two hundred. In 1922 we 
have in the main school six hundred seventy-five; we have one 
hundred or more in a Home Department and fifty or seventy-five 
someplace in a Cradle Roll and there are six hundred present this 
morning. Last Easter, without any effort at all, we had six hun- 
dred sixty-one present. The largest attendance of this Sunday 
School was in February, 1915. Some of you will remember we 
had, first, Girls’ Day and we had five hundred eighty-six present 
on Girls’ Day; then on Boys’ Day we had eight hundred thirty- 
two present. That was the biggest enrollment attendance of the 
Sunday School in its history. 


Closing Number, 264 


TUESDAY EVENING, AUGUST 29, 1922 
UUs basi: 


Organ Prelude—*A Song of Gratitude” - - - - = - Cole 
Hymn No. 560 
Prayer by Rev. H. M. Carnahan 


Auspices of the Men—Hon. Wm. B. Meredith, Presiding. 


342 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


By Mr. Meredith :— 


Members of the congregation of the First Presbyterian Church 
of Kittanning, visitors and friends, | regard it an honor to be 
called upon to preside over an assemblage of this character. | 
regard it a greater privilege and greater honor to be called upon 
to preside over one of the meetings of the Centennial of this 
Church. As presiding officer, | have little to do save announce 
the speakers and possibly the pastor has not limited them as to 
the time, but I will before they are through. That reminds me 
I had occasion to preside over a meeting previous to or about the 
time of the World War in which there were a number of distin- 
eulshed speakers, and among them a Pastor of one of the Churches 
of this town. The committee in charge said to me, be sure and 
call time at the expiration of ten minutes, but there was no occasion 
to call time on any of the speakers except the clergyman and he 
made a long speech and several of the persons who were on the 
platform said to me, why don’t you pull his coat tail and one 
fellow said, you are afraid because he is your pastor. Well, now, 
that won't be the case tonight. 

Now, | have said that my duty is limited and I might stop 
there, but at the same time I am not going to. I am going to ask 
the indulgence of all those for a very few minutes about the cen- 
tury which is past. One hundred years is seemingly a long time, 
but if I live until November 7, it will be eighty years since I was 
brought into the Presbyterian Church, but my mother always 
told me that on the occasion of my baptism in 1842, I let the audi- 
ence know that I was there by frequent little squalls, but I guess 
that is the custom of most children at the time of baptism. 

I don’t know that any Presbyterian need be ashamed of the 
name. | don’t know any church organization unless it may be 
the Lutheran that antedates it. When Martin Luther, a Catholic 
Monk, nailed the ninety-five theses on the door of the Cathedral 
at Wurtemberg, he struck the Church of Rome a blow from which 
it has never recovered. John Calvin was of that age and I be- 
lieve that the doctrines which we claim to hold come, in a meas- 
ure, from John Calvin, but I don’t want to get into the Reforma- 
tion, although it is one of the most interesting subjects on which 
a person can talk. It is a subject which everyone should 
study. It is a subject on which every member of this congregation 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 343 


should have a full understanding, everyone should know from 
whence he comes as a Presbyterian. 

Now | want to state a few words in regard to Sunday School. 
When I was about six years of age, | think my father took me to 
Sunday School to keep me out of mischief. My friends. | was 
deeply impressed with the Sunday School. What impressed me 
more than anything else was the singing under the leadership of A. 
L. Robinson, then an active member of the church and a won- 
derful singer and there was no difficulty in getting me to go to 
Sunday School. 

Now I must tell you of my first teacher, Alex. McCullough. 
He was a good teacher, a wonderful teacher. I received a book 
for committing to memory the Shorter Catechism. 

Now I believe that | ought to say a few words in reference to 
Dr. Joseph Painter, a great man, a learned man and a distingushed 
scholar, an able preacher and when Dr. Painter died the whole 
town mourned and when he was carried to his last resting place 
many a tear was shed by more than those within the congregation 
of his church. 

I have got something else to say. I tell you, my friends, Kit- 
tanning is pretty proud of its people, Kittanning is a pretty great 
place, we all call it the county seat of Armstrong County, that 1s 
true and | say further that Pittsburgh is the largest suburb. 

Of those who have gone out from this church there are many 
who have distinguished themselves in various callings of life. 
Among those 1s a man who was born in Rimersburg, Clarion Coun- 
ty, who has distinguished himself as a legislator in our State and 
National Government and was also a soldier in the Spanish- 
American War. His grand conduct on the field of battle has en- 
deared him to every Pennsylvanian. A man whom | recall as be- 
ing in the Sunday School when | was librarian. For thirteen years 
I was librarian of the Presbyterian Sunday School and for about 
fifteen years I was in one of the classes and my only regret is that 
I didn’t keep it up. But my friends, it affords me great pleasure 
to introduce to you a boy of Kittanning who was educated here to 
a certain extent, who afterwards moved to Oil City and who is 
none other than Gen. Willis J. Hulings. 


344 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Address by Gen. Hulings, of Oil City, Pa. 
elit] Bel RGA Pe Vinny Ges 


It is more than fifty years when, as a young boy, I left Kit- 
tanning, but I have always had the most delightful recollection of 
my happy boyhood spent in this good old town and one of my 
earliest recollections 1s standing on Jefferson Street in 1856 watch- 
ing the men with the tackle pulling down the old building, on the 
site of which my father built the old church down below where 
McCartney’s lived at that time. Dr. Painter was the pastor there 
for many years and how well | remember that good old man! _ His 
benevolent face, his white hair and you know in those days the 
congregation stood during prayer and Dr. Painter was a bit long 
on prayer, they said sometimes as much as a half hour. In those 
days Sunday was a very serious day, you could not play, you dare 
not even whistle, you couldn’t read anything but those foolish 
Sunday School books or Bunyan’s Pilgrims Progress or the History 
of the Reformation and then if you were real good you might walk 
up to the graveyard in the afternoon provided you walked in a 
sedate and solemn manner, but the Sunday School was alright. | 
remember at that time Bill Meredith, a gentleman with his silvery 
crown, he was what we used to call the Beau Brummel of Society 
and Joe Painter with his white hair, they were the ministers pleni- 
potentiary in the conduct of the Sunday School. They collected the 
pennies and distributed the books, and I guess Mr. Meredith is at 
it yet. They gave us a red ticket for attendance which could be 
exchanged, ten of them, for a blue ticket and when you had 
accumulated ten blue tickets you could exchange that for a copy 
of the Confession of Faith. Squire Robinson led ‘the singing. I 
used to have to go to his singing classes, whenever he had them, 
and he had them all the time. His daughter, who was a beautiful 
young girl at that time, was the organist. Well now, we didn’t 
have any organ, to be true about it, but we had a little bit of a 
melodeon about so large and she used to play that. There was a 
lot of the congregation that rather looked askance at the music 
machine, they were rather dubious about the propriety of allowing 
machine music in the church, but it was such a little organ, I used 
to see the old Squire tuck it under his arm and because it was so 
small they let it go at that. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 345 


The Squire was very fond of the song, “I Want to Be an Angel 
and With the Angels Stand.” Now, our class was about the 
toughest in the Sunday School, Tom Jack and Alex. Crawford and 
Ross Patton and Lynn Galbreath and Charley Wolfe and a bunch 
of others that were just as bad, and say, when Charlie Wolfe 
would start to sing with his teeth clenched, “I Want to Be an 
Angel’, someone of the fellows would be sure to give him a dig in 
the ribs and then his melody would expire with a grunt. 


When Dr. Painter, through advanced years, gave up the min- 
istry the congregation had a mighty hard time finding a successor. 
As I remember Rev. George P. Hays came here on approval, or 
preparation, or trial, or whatever it 1s they do when they get a 
new preacher, but after a few months was called to Baltimore. 
Rev. T. D. Ewing became the pastor and then, James E. Brown, 
a great giant of a man, ran the Sunday School. He ran pretty 
much everything else in town, because he owned the bank. After 
him Dr. Findley was the superintendent and then the war started 
and about that time I got into politics, | think I was ten or twelve 
years of age, but | got to carrying a torch for Abraham Lincoln’s 
rail splitters and how we did despise the Democratic boys that 
carried the torches for the little giant and about that time [ left 
the town and went to school and so my activities in the church 
ceased and what changes have come. In the last sixty years there 
have been greater advances in civilization than in the eighteen 
hundred years that preceded them. I do not agree with those who 
think that the world is going to the devil. | do not believe that this 
world is adrift. Of course, they will point to the great wave of 
crime that has been going on all over the world since the close 
of the World War. They will say look at the divorce courts, look 
at the criminal dockets, look even at the young girls with their 
powder puffs and bobbed hair and now | think that those girls are 
just as sweet, and they look just as good to me with their bobbed 
hair and all as their grandmothers did with their balloon hoops 
and tight corsets. Oh, it must be that the world is getting better. 
Read the Old Testament and get a view there of what human ex- 
istence was in those days. Why their prayers were to invoke the 
vengence of God on their enemies, their only hope seemed to be 
to evade the vengence and wrath of the Almighty. They were a 
great bunch, they were constantly at war. Such institutions as 
libraries and hospitals for the elevation of the unfortunate were 


346 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


practically unknown. Now compare the view that you get of 
human existence of those days as portrayed in the Old Testament 
with the view that you get today in reading the public press. Of 
course, there are many of those things done, but this is a great 
world and you get spread before you every morning the 
news from every part of the world. But see the great institutions, 
see the great vans of noble men and women who are giving up 
their whole lives for the elevation of the unfortunate and one 
comes to the conclusion that the world is getting better or else you 
must conclude that the religion of Jesus Christ has been a failure. 
The Puritanical idea of religion had some very solid streaks in it. 
| believe that those old hard-boiled Puritan fathers, in very large 
degrees, put the impress upon the people of this country and senti- 
ment of this country that today we call Americanism. 


I remember reading some time ago of a meeting of New Eng- 
landers down there in New York, they had been called together to 
celebrate New England’s Day and all the fine orators of the coun- 
try were gathered together and they were excelling themselves in 
praise of the character of the New England fathers, what they had 
endured of privation and the sturdiness of the men and the faith- 
fulness of the women. One man got up and said, “Well, I quite 
agree with you in your statements about the hardships and the en- 
durance of the Pilgrim fathers, but I really think that the greater 
praise 1s due the Pilgrim mothers, because they had ‘to endure 
everything that the Pilgrim fathers had to endure, and worst of all 
they had to endure the Pilgrim fathers also.” 


The Jewish idea of God, as | gather it, was very largely that 
He was a great vengeful, wrathful being and that the chief end of 
man, 1f possible, was to escape Hell. When our great Master 
came into the world He made a new revelation, He practically said 
that this idea that God is a vengeful Being, seeking to reap His 
wrath upon offending mortals is wrong. God is a God of love, 
that mankind and his children whom he regardeth as a_ kind 
Father, that mankind 1s akin to Deity. We have got a good deal 
of that in our teaching yet. A little grandson of mine went to 
Sunday School, I think he is six or seven, and he heard it there 
and he is an inquisitive little creature and he wrote to his aunt and 
he said, “I was at the Sunday School and I learned all about Hell, 
but who does the devil get to shovel the coal into the furnace down 
therer’’ Why it isn’t so very long ago, one of the elders, after 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning — 347 


hauling his congregation over the imperial Hell, said, “Hell is 
a great lake of fire and brimstone, bigger than Lake Erie.” | think 
Jesus has taught us better than that. 

God never created any evil thing, all the evil in this world is 
the result of man’s disobedience of law. These laws God _ has 
made it capable of man to understand and He sent His own Son 
into the world to make the plain declaration, he came here to show 
man how to live and if man believes on him, he has told us, he 
hath eternal life. 


Hymn No. 353 


Introduction of Hon. Samuel B. Cochran, Brooklyn, N. Y., by 
Senator Meredith 


CLE V NwAN Dar riicro WIN DAY Se HOOR: 


My friends, | trust that you will believe me that I am _ not 
egotistic enough to come the long distance that has been referred 
to by your President, with the idea of bringing anything new to 
you, or telling you anything that you don’t already know. | came 
that long distance that the Senator refers to for the purpose of 
rubbing elbows with you, my friends and sort of having a reunion 
that has been broken for the last ten years and indeed, it does give 
me a great deal of pleasure to be here and be one of you in the 
celebration of this occasion. [| had almost despaired of being able 
to get here, charging myself with the duties that | owe to my em- 
ployers because | am a working man and indeed, went so far as to 
write a letter to Dr. McKee and tell him that under the circum- 
stances, it was absolutely impossible for me to get here and beg- 
ging excuses and sending to you, my friends, tearful regrets and 
all that sort of thing. When I had mailed the letter | looked over 
its copy and as | read it through | began to feel that all of my 
alibis were weak. The counsellors being all Presbyterians, when 
I told them with tears also, that here was a congregation that had 
been waiting for me for one hundred years and that now I was 
about to disappoint them and myself also, it was unanimously 
decided that neither you nor myself should be disappointed and 
so | am here and indeed, I am very glad of it. 

The program of this evening has appealed to me very much. 
It purported to put me into the company of distinguished men 


348 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


who are my oldest and best friends and it was such an appeal that 
would have been able to have made me lay aside most anything 
else, and Senator Meredith presiding here with his well known 
dignity taught me the rudiments of Pennsylvamia politics, but | 
have forgiven him for that. He also taught me many of the vir- 
tues and mysteries of Free Masonry and indeed, | should have dis- 
liked very much to have missed the opportunity to hold another 
reunion with him after an acquaintance of something like forty 
years. 

General Hulings taught me all that | could assimilate of a mili- 
tary education and | often wondered what might have happened 
if he had furnished me with a war to fight in. 


| might also say that neither of these distinguished gentlemen 
whom I have referred to ever bothered me much about my religion. 
I say that without any intention of disparagement. But in this 
church dedicated to the worship of God, I seriously take pleasure in 
saying, perhaps for the first time in such an audience as this, that 
first and foremost my revered and beloved parents, a Christian 
father and a Christian mother and secondly the Church, it is with 
its good men and women who have blazed the path for me that | 
am not ashamed but proud to walk in, notwithstanding the fact 
that my stubborn feet have led me to the edge of the path and per- 
haps over the edge of the path that was so well planned by a 
Christian faith and so well built by a Christian father and made 
so lustrous and beautiful by the tears and devotion of a Christian 
mother. They said that I should speak about the Men and the 
Sunday School. A great deal has been said by the Senator and 
the General leading to the lot of the positions that men should 
take and do take in the church and the various steps that have 
been taken in the line that we should call advancement, the ideas 
of men, the ideas of the church itself and all that, that I scarcely 
know where | should strike next, but having been more interested 
and more active perhaps in the Sunday School of this church than 
any of those other principles, no doubt that subject was chosen for 
me. 


I recollect very well the first time that I ever came over the 
threshold of the Presbyterian Church in Kittanning, it was a good 
many years ago. [| am a little bit more jealous of my years than 
the Senator and the General and therefore, I won’t tell just 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 349 


how many years ago it was. The church was on Jefferson Street 
where | was introduced into a Bible Class that was being taught 
by J. B. Finlay and that was the beginning of my Sunday School 
experience in Kittanning. 

A few years ago the distinguished churchman, George W. Dov- 
erspike, picked up a few of the young men and organized a Bible 
Class and | think he succeeded in getting six of us together with 
Mr. J. H. McCain as the teacher, and we began with some doubt 
about what our success might be, but with more or less enthusiasm, 
and began recruiting from every source possible and we had the 
pleasure to live long enough in this community to see that Sunday 
School class grow numerically to the extent of more than one hun- 
dred members. At the same time, which was very satisfactory 
indeed to us, not only were we proud of that, but without going into 
detail | think | saw enough myself of the effect of that work, not 
the effect of my work nor the effect of any other perhaps, except 
the teacher, a devout man and powerful, Rev. John Orr, for whom 
the Bible Class was named, and one of the most lovable men that 
this community ever had, but to see the effect that that had, not 
only on all of us generally but some of us particularly. There 
was some pretty rought stuff sometimes, if you will pardon the 
rough expression, in that Bible class. There were some men in it 
just as rough as | am, for example, and then you will know, but 
it had its effect. I leave that to my colleagues in that Bible class 
to verify what I have said, in their own minds at least, without 
reference to any particular man, but the men in the church were 
beginning to be more active. At that time it seemed to have been 
left to our women to look after the religious meetings and the men 
looked after the political matters, but there has been a great deal 
of change in that. Now I observe, since, I left this community, 
that some of the ladies of this congregation are very active in poli- 
tics and I don’t know but on the other hand some of the men are 
more active in the church. 

There was some talk here earlier in this session about pulling 
people’s coat tails, but | am not going to give the Senator an 
opportunity to pull my coat tail. I am going to draw my remarks 
to a close for | notice my young friend from the west and a former 
pastor’s son, on the platform and it would be unfair to take up time 
that would tire you with me and perhaps limit their addresses to 


350 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


you. It does mea great deal of good to get back here again to see 
the people that I know. I have lived in a great city since 
I left here ten years ago and [| think that in that time | have suc- 
ceeded in making the acquaintance of about six people, notwith- 
standing the fact that I pass thousands of people going to and from 
work every day. I might say that I have succeeded in making the 
acquaintance of about six people so you can see how delightful it 
is to get back into the old town again where they call to you from 
the opposite side of the street and tell you to wait until they come 
over and it has always been a great delight to me to come back to 
Kittanning. It is a great pleasure indeed, to see you all here again, 
to see all you people tonight and feel that if we have not been 
acquainted before that we are somewhat acquainted now, that we 
have had such a reunion that will remind us of each other in years 
to come. 

It is a great honor indeed, to be asked to stand in the pulpit 
of this church, dedicated to the worship of God, and be permitted 
to talk to Christian people and on Christian subjects, which years 
ago was denied to everybody except the pastor himself, and in 
parting with you | wish you all for yourselves and families the very 
greatest success in life. 


Introduction of Prof. James F. Ewing, Pittsburgh, Pa., by Mr. 
Meredith. 


SLO ESROGKOEROM WEENG EBay ea hai bs Wane 


As | said last Sunday morning in Sunday School it is impossible 
for me to give any personal recollection of my life in Kittanning, 
but none the less, | want to say to you tonight that | have never 
forgotten this church nor the town of Kittanning. There is some- 
thing about one’s boyhood that you don’t forget and | rejoice with 
you this week in the celebration which we are having of the one 
hundredth anniversary of this church. 

There are many influences which enter into the formation of an 
institution such as this church. It 1s what 1t is because of those 
who founded it and it is also what it is because of the work and in- 
fluence of those who have labored for its progress and its develop- 
ment and we should honor those who have been instrumental in 
the formation of such an institution and work in the development 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 35] 


of this church, but in addition to that there are other influences 
which come further back. There are historical roots which lie 
deeper, out of which an institution of this kind has come and be- 
cause of these historical roots and influences which lie deeper this 
church is what it 1s today and has had the growth and developmer * 
that it has had through a period of one hundred years. Let 4s 
think of some of the deeper influences, some of the more remote 
grounds which have had their effect upon the growth of an insti- 
tution of this kind. There are two historical roots which I shall 
try to explain to you tonight. 


One pertains to religion and one to race. This church is what 
it is partly because it is a Presbyterian Church and this church 
has had the history that it has partly because of the race of people 
who were instrumental in its founding and formation. That is, 
one of these historical roots has to do with Presbyterianism and 
the other has to do with the Scotch-Irish race. When we talk 
about Presbyterianism, in order to understand it, we have to go 
back to the time of the Reformation, or the Revolt of the Pro- 
testants, which took place in the Sixteenth Century. It was also 
the starting point of most of the various churches which in this 
country we call Denominations. Up to the time of the Refor- 
mation the church was one in its doctrine, one in its power, and 
one in its government. That which we call the Protestant Church 
was the means of the separation by which this single church was 
divided or separated into a number of other national churches, 
differing from each other in many ways, and out of that revolt 
came that which we call the Presbyterian Church, largely be- 
cause of the work of one man, John Calvin, a Frenchman, born 
in 1509, therefore belonging to the second generation rather than 
the first generation of the Reformers. He was twelve years of age 
at the time of Luther’s Reformation and John Calvin found it 
necessary to leave France because of religious persecution, and 
go to Switzerland, where the greater part of his life was lived and 
his work done, chiefly in the city of Geneva. 


During the time John Calvin was carrying on his work in 
Geneva was the time of the persecution of the Protestants in Eng- 
land under Queen Mary and the time of the same kind of perse- 
cution in Scotland, and the exiles from both those countries found 
refuge in Geneva where they learned the methods and principles 
of Calvin Presbyterianism. 


352 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Upon the death of Mary and the asccession of Elizabeth, these 
exiles had an opportunity of returning to Great Britain and they 
brought with them the ideas which they had imbibed at Geneva. 
Thus English and Scotch Puritanism was strongly influenced by 
the ideas of Calvanism. 


Another part of Europe which had a similar experience was 
Holland. The exiles from Holland also found refuge in Geneva 
and carried back with them the peculiar Reformation which 
Calvin had instituted at Geneva; thus the Dutch and British in- 
fluence on America, on its religious side, was largely a Presby- 
terian one. 


John Knox, the founder and leader of the Scotch Presbyterian 
Church in Reformation times spent a period of time as an exile 
in Geneva before he settled in Scotland and began hts work there 
as the leader of the Scottish Church. 


There were certain characteristics which these great Presby- 
terians have had wherever the Presbyterian Church has _ been 
founded, certain beliefs which they had and certain characteristics 
which they carried out. The first of these in Calvin’s doctrine 
was centered about a cardinal theory of the power and sovereignty 
of God. The Calvinists believed that God rules in the life of 
man, that God has a plan for each man’s life, that man’s duty 1s 
to follow that plan and to conform his life to the idea which he has 
of the design which God has planned for his life and that man, 
therefore, ought to obey God rather than man and that it is the 
religious duty of every man to obey God and to resist the opposi- 
tions to God’s will wherever he may find it 1n his own life or in the 
influences which come to him from those around him in human 
life. 

Another cardinal principle of Calvanism is the worth and dignity 
of man to come into the presence of this sovereign God. That 
men are equal before God and that every human soul has a worth 
and dignity before God and in relation to his fellowmen and in 
relation to Government. This is a democratic principle that all 
men are equal before God and that every one has a worth and 
dignity in the presence of God. Every man has a right to come 
into God’s presence and ask for what he desires without any priest 
coming between man and God. These two principles of the power 
and sovereignty and the worth and dignity of the human soul are 
more closely connected. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 353 


Then another thing is the political side of Calvanism, upon 
the right of men to manage their own affairs. It also has insisted 
upon the principle and religious duty of man to resist opposition 
and oppression wherever he find it. Churches may differ from 
each other in one or more of three respects: Doctrine, Ritual, 
Government. The distinctive feature of Presbyterianism is its 
form of Government. The form of government which Calvin 
devised for the Presbyterian Church was one without bishops, one 
in which church affairs are managed by the people themselves 
through their representatives, the Elders. Thus wherever Presby- 
terianism spreads, the spirit of Democracy spreads. 


Then when James I became King of England in 1603 he had 
no use for Presbyterianism because of his experience with it in 
Scotland and because of his exalted idea of the King’s Prerogative 
realized that Presbyterianism and Monarchy do not mix when he 
said “No Bishop, no King.” He realized that wherever men got to 
managing their own affairs in the Church, it would only be a short 
time before they would be having the same right in the State and 
get rid of their Kings, so everywhere that the Presbyterians went 
we find the spread of this spirit of democracy. Wherever you find 
a church with the designation of Presbyterian, you find one com- 
posed of those who believe in the dignity and worth of man in 
relation to God or in relation to government and who have the 
courage of their convictions. So we find Calvanism showing a 
spirit of resistance to force everywhere. 


There was something about the spirit of Calvanism which 
taught obedience to God rather than to man and which taught re- 
sistance to oppression as a religious duty. So we have a splendid 
heritage in our Presbyterian Church in Kittanning. Those who 
founded this church have been Presbyterians who believed 1n these 
principles of historic Presbyterianism as they were first formulated 
by John Calvin and came to us from England and from Scotland, 
from the Reformation in Scotland. Our historical roots are 
found in Switzerland and England and Scotland. 


There is another feature which we ought to emphasize and that 
is the one which pertains to race. The first one pertains to religion 
and the second pertains to race, the Scotch-Irish race. Western 
Pennsylvania was very largely settled by what we call the Scotch- 
Irish and we cannot understand the origin of a church like this 


354 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


unless we know something of this element. There has been some 
criticism of this name, some objection to the use of the term Scotch- 
Irish, some saying that it would be better to say  I[rish-Scotch 
rather than Scotch-Irish, but custom has so established it that we 
will continue to use it and it is only necessary to understand the 
origin of the people to whom it is applied. They are the people, 
or the descendants of the people who came from Scotland to the 
North of Ireland and from there to America. They were Ulster- 
men in the North of Ireland who migrated to Western Pennsyl- 
vania, but who were of Scotch origin and mostly of the Presby- 
terian religion. This is one of the most important race elements 
in our American population, especially in the population of West- 
ern Pennsylvania. 

These Scotch-Irish had certain characteristics which were to be 
found wherever they located and were imparted to their descend- 
ants. 

One of these characteristics was the importance which they 
gave to the church. This followed from their Calvanism. In the 
history of the migration from Ulster to America we find the min- 
isters taking a prominent part and in their settlements, often crude 
and on the frontier, we find the churches among the first of the 
institutions to be built or provided for. They brought with them 
the elements of their church organization. | have heard the 
President of Pikeville College in Kentucky, whose work is among 
the Scotch-Irish of the mountains of Kentucky, say that one reason 
for the backwardness of those people is that when they first came 
into that country they did not have ministers with them and did 
not found churches in early times. 


He contrasts them with the Scotch-Irish who came about the 
same time into Armstrong county and who brought their ministers 
and churches with them. 


If we knew fully the families of those who organized this 
church it is certain that we should find many of them of this 
Scotch-Irish extraction, out of which grew this Church and _ its 
mighty influence through the hundred years that 1t has wrought. 


Another thing which the Scotch-Irish insisted upon was the im- 
portance of education of their ministry and the devotion to the 
educational work of the church. They founded schools and col- 
leges and we find that in the history of the beginning of education 
that all of the colleges in early times were chiefly because of the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning a}o ke, 


importance which they ascribed to the leadership of their minis- 
ters. This is especially true of the Central States and the South 
where educational institutions sprang up in the Eighteenth Cen- 
tury following the spread of the Scotch-Irish. 

Another quality which these Scotch-Irish showed is closely 
akin to the one which | spoke of a moment ago, was the belief in 
the necessity and value of resistance to oppression. Everywhere 
they went they believed that men ought to have resistance to op- 
pression and to have the courage of their conviction as well. They 
are found everywhere in the agitation of and the actual resistance 
to the oppression of Great Britain on the colonies. The Scotch- 
Irish were very prominent in all the armies of the colonies. 

Lecky, the English historian, says “The Scotch-Irish went to 
America with hearts filled with indignation and in the War of In- 
dependence were almost to a man on the side of the insurgents.” 

Indeed, someone has gone so far as to say that the underlying 
cause of the American Revolution was the activity and influence 
of the Presbyterians. Today they fight, if necessary, in order to 
overthrow that which they believe to be wrong. 


These then are the qualities of the people who founded this 
church and whose qualities we ought to be perpetuating. This 
church has its roots far back in the past. It is what it 1s because 
of what John Calvin taught and wrought at Geneva and because 
of the qualities which the exiles carried thence to Scotland and 
brought with them to Ulster and thence to Western Pennsylvania. 
This part of our country is what it is today because of the use 
which those Scotch-Irish made of their convictions and beliefs. 


A great many changes have taken place in this neighborhood 
during one hundred years, but there are certain great beliefs and 
principles which these exiles had which can never change and 
which we need today amid these changed conditions as much as 
they did in a more primitive day. 

We need to emphasize as did they the value of the human soul 
and its dignity in relation to God. In the Old Testament Jehovah 
spoke unto Ezekiel again and again “Son of Man, Stand upon 
Thy feet”! Look God directly in the face with a feeling of con- 
fidence and worth. This is the meaning of the spirit of democracy, 
each man equal to every other man in his relation to God and each 
man able to manage his own affairs and to have a voice in their 


356 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


direction. In our treatment of our fellow citizens in this country 
this is the spirit which we should use, that all are born with equal 
rights and that in their relation to God all are of equal value. 

Another feature of historic Presbyterianism to be emphasized 
is the value of education. Our church work should be centered 
about the educational features. We want our church to be an in- 
telligent church, a church with people familiar with the Word of 
God and with the Revelation which God has given of His Will in 
history and in nature. 

One of the features of the great commission which Jesus gave 
to His Disciples was that they should go into all the world and 
teach. The living Church must be a teaching church and the only 
kind of a church worth while is one in which the members are 
trained by education in the things of the Gospel and the history of 
the church. Again, we need the spirit of courage for resistance 
to wrong which the founders of the church had. We are too apt 
to be indifferent—to let things slide. We need the iron in our 
blood which drives us to remonstrance and resistance whenever 
we find that which is evil. A people like the American people is 
not in danger of choosing the evil, but we are in danger of allow- 
ing the evil to remain. We need a sterner life, a life of strenuous 
opposition to evil and we can only carry on the work begun here 
one hundred years ago by keeping up active resistance to the evil 
as we see it. Life is a contest, a struggle and the evil cannot be 
overcome by mere drifting and indifference. The good can be 
achieved only by struggle. And that is the heritage which we have 
from our predecessors, the example of resistance by which they 
overthrew and achieved. 

These are the vital lessons which the celebration teaches us as | 
look at it. 

The worth of each man in a democracy. The necessity for 
education in Church and State. The value of vigorous resistance 
to evil. 

Only as we show these qualities will we be able to continue the 
work begun in this church with its organization one hundred years 
ago. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning nee: 


Introduction of Prof. Philip Slaymaker, Lincoln, Neb., by Mr. 
Meredith. 


THE YOUNG PRESBYTERIANS OF AMERICA 


We have heard the splendid address which has just been deliv- 
ered to us and as the hour is growing late | will not keep you very 
long. | am very glad that it has been possible for me to be here 
on this occasion. Most of you know that my great grandmother 
was a charter member of this church. My grandfather served as 
one of the elders. I have been told that,! was baptized by Dr. T. 
D. Ewing, the father of Prof. Ewing, however, | have no distinct 
recollection of this event. It seems only a few years since I was a 
young boy in your midst and if | had my way tonight | would 
have the part of the young boy in the pew. When I was first told 
of this Centennial celebration, | thought it was a splendid idea, 
but later on when I learned that I was to have a part on the pro- 
eram | felt a little like the man who was attending the funeral of 
his mother-in-law. The occasion was something like this: The 
services were over and they were about to go to the cemetery. The 
carriages were all full and the undertaker came to this man and 
said, “My dear sir, | am very sorry, but the carriages are full and 
you will have to ride on the hearse,” this man remonstrated very 
severely and as he was arguing, the undertaker said, “See here, 
you are holding back the procession and you will have to do that,” 
so the man says, “Well, if I must, | must, but it will take all the 
pleasure out of the affair for me.” 

It is rather a delicate matter to get a definition for young peo- 
ple. Some people might not like classification. Many of us who 
did not think we were old have had the experience of not being in- 
cluded by the young people in their social functions. When | 
think of the young people, | think of the young men and young 
women of college age and | will confine my remarks to this period 
of life; also this is a classification of young people in the Sunday 
School. It is certainly great to be young and so often when the 
young men come to me to talk about their plans for the future | 
almost wish I could begin life all over again. Yes, it is great to be 
young and | congratulate every young person who is on the 
threshold of life but especially do I congratulate the Presbyterian 
young people, but | sometimes wonder how many young people to- 


358 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


day know why they are Presbyterians, and probably some older 
people too. If we would ask the question probably the majority 
would say, because our parents were Presbyterians. That is a 
very good reason and we should be thankful to a kind Providence 
that granted this heritage. But that reason is not sufficient. | 
would have every young man and every young woman study the 
history of our church, her doctrine, what the church is and what 
it has been, what she is doing today and has done in the past; also 
some of the characters and achievements of the people who have 
been brought up in this fold. Such knowledge can only inspire 
one to thank God that he was born a Presbyterian. 

When God created the Universe he was carrying out a divine 
plan and man and the affairs of men are a part of this plan, so | 
would like to say to the young people here tonight that every 
young person is a man, a woman of destiny. God has a place for 
each one and the duty of each young person is to make the best 
possible preparation for a life of service. The young people of 
today will be the church leaders of tomorrow. 


The Presbyterian Church has not been slow to recognize this 
fact and has founded various means for training its young people 
for life work. The Board of Education 1s constantly at work to 
improve the existing methods such as will be helpful to this end. 
The oldest agency, of course, 1s the Sunday School. There 1s still 
too much mortality as we approach the Young People’s Depart- 
ment. More effort must be made on the part of the teachers to 
hold these young people. I am not so sure that modern methods 
are producing as great results in bringing souls to Christ as of old, 
but it 1s not the fault of the organization. The tendency nowadays 
is too much organization without the spiritual power back of it. 
Keep the organization but put with it the consecrated Christian 
spirit. 

The world needs intelligent Christians who know God’s Word, 
and the Sunday School is still the greatest help to the church. 


We have the Young People’s Christian Endeavor Society, but 
it seems to be losing its hold, and this should not be. I knew a 
church where the Young People’s Christian Endeavor Society was 
its only support during a crisis and these same young people are to- 
day leaders in the Presbyterian Church at home and abroad. The 
Young People’s Christian Endeavor Society is a training school 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 359 


for service and leadership and this, or an equivalent organization, 
is needed. It should have direction and oversight by the pastor 
and session, but it should be a Young People’s organization. 

Sometimes in our zeal for service we continue membership in 
the Young People’s Christian Endeavor after the period for which 
it was designed, then the young people get discouraged and _ less 
efficient. 

And then we would not forget the Westminster Guild. Every 
Presbyterian Church should have a chapter of this organization 
which opens an opportunity for young women to take up mission- 
ary study and prepare for large duties in the Woman’s Missionary 
Society. 

One of the more recent agencies 1s the summer conference for 
Young People. These are held in all parts of the country and the 
object is to deepen the spiritual life of the young people, broaden 
the vision and provide practical suggestions for service. Every 
church should provide for sending as many Young People as pos- 
sible to these conferences every year. 

Before I close, | would like to speak of the work among the 
college students. Of course, the Presbyterian colleges are looking 
after the spiritual life of the students, but on account of the very 
nature of the large state universities the students do not have so 
much opportunity of development of their spiritual life and from 
this standpoint the student 1s more likely to be led away and his 
faith unsettled. 

The Board of Education is making every effort to mest the 
needs of the Young People. Each church should keep in touch 
with and give its heartiest support to this Board. 

I had the privilege of attending the General Assembly this year 
and several of the members of the Board of Education have come 
to realize the importance of the Board. In fact, the work of ail 
the other boards of the church centers about the educational work. 
Without education we can have no teachers, preachers or missicn- 
aries and the church would. then fail. 

So the church that would be most efficient in carrying en the 
work of the Master is the church which has an aggressive program 
for its Young People. 


Hymn No, 498. 


300 =~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


WEDNESDAY EVENING, AUGUST 30, 1922 


Organ Prelude—‘‘Isle of Dreams” 
Auspices of the Women—Miss Juliette Robinson, Presiding 
Hymn No. 398 


Scripture Lesson by Mrs. J. P. Culbertson, President of the For- 
elgn Missionary Society 


Prayer by Mrs. W. J. Hutchison, Vice President of the Home Mis- 
sionary Society 


Anthem—‘‘Praise the Lord” 


Address by Mrs. Paul W. McClintock, Laurel, Miss. 


“PRESBYTERIAN MISSIONS” 


If the angel Gabriel were looking down from the high battle- 
ments of heaven and saying to one who was standing by, “What 
means this excitement in the beautiful valley of the Allegheny?” 
he would answer, “The church at that place is celebrating its one 
hundredth birthday. In the long ago I lived there and | know 
something of the toil and struggle. It started with only twenty- 
two members and today it numbers over one thousand. From its 
number have come out men and women who have told the story 
of Jesus and his love in many languages and tongues.”’ 


While there are other churches with the same distinction as 
Kittanning, it has the unusual distinction of being the only town 
in the United States of this name, so the First Presbyterian Church 
of Kittanning has among its many other distinctions that in all this 
time there have been but four pastors: all have been loved and 
honored and respected. The first of whom was Dr. Painter, then my 
beloved father, Dr. T. D. Ewing, then came Dr. Mayers and then 
your own successful, honored pastor of today and I am sure that 
these four men would link hands and say that never had ministers 
been better treated. My own father never loved a church or peo- 
ple as he loved this one. 


When I first went to China as a young missionary woman, some 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 361 


people said to me, ‘““How did you have the courage to marry a 
minister?” I said, “O, my mother always told me it was the hap- 
piest life possible.” 

As a minister’s wife, as | look back over those early days, in 
memory I can see no brighter place than the home of the Robin- 
sons, Who were never too tired or busy to entertain the servants of 
God. And then | remember Mrs. H. H. Calhoun, who spent most 
of her life in the society of this First Presbyterian Church in her 
life’s devotion to the Master whom she now sees face to face, and 
all the others whom | never could begin to name, who, through 
faith, have wrought wonders in this church. 


Had you thought of it that we are living in a wonderful age? 
That it is a great gift of God to be alive today? As you know, by 
means of the radiophone we can hear in our homes what is going 
on for miles and miles away. Listen, tonight we can hear the 
tramping of many feet in Korea, that wonderful land of Christian- 
ity, where out of a congregation of one thousand people, they are 
sending missionaries to China. In China during this last year, in 
five months ten thousand people were added to the Church mem- 
bership. One thousand churches have been organized and this too 
in the midst of deepest persecution. Many of these church mem- 
bers have come from homes of great trouble and sorrow, from the 
death of loved ones and through it all they have kept the faith and 
have told the story of Jesus and His love. Many are in political 
prison, they are in solitary imprisonment because they believed in 
the independence of Korea. One of the young men was arrested 
and put in prison and in that prison there were so many other men 
and he thought out a scheme by which he could communicate with 
the other prisoners. Before he left he had talked with forty young 
men of Korea. On account of his message they were giving their 
lives to Jesus Christ. 


There are three thousand churches in the country of Korea, 
three thousand church buildings of our own and over eighty-five 
thousand people waiting to be taken into the Presbyterian Churches 
of Korea. I speak especially of Korea tonight because in that land 
our Presbyterian Church has had the major part of the work, and 
also, the Presbyterian Church is responsible for the work done in 
the Philippine Islands. 

There is a story of a man in Africa who had been a fighter in 


362. ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


their army and you know what that means, how they are filled 
with lust and wickedness of all kinds. His little boy was sick and 
he went into his own hut and said to his wife “Let us try God.” 
He kneeled down and prayed to God to heal his child. He fell 
asleep and later on in the cold dawn he awoke, but when he reached 
over to touch the child he thought he was dead, but he found that 
the child had broken into perspiration and he called to his wife and 
said, “The child lives, come and kneel down with me” and he said, 
“O God, you have heard my prayer, | will be your slave, my wife 
will be your slave.” From that time on he has been one of the 
most wonderful preachers in the African church. 


Now then we come to India, another country in which the Pres- 
byterian Church has had the larger part of the work. I want you 
to know the increase in membership in our Presbyterian Church 
in India, it is over three hundred per cent and does not compare 
in fact with any of the churches in the United States. They had 
a wonderful revival meeting and thirty-seven hundred people de- 
cided for Jesus Christ. The high officers in India have come out 
on the side of Christ; they say they will stand for Christianity. 


Then we come to China, the country that | know most about, 
some of you will say China has a religion, 1f you want to call it 
that, but I am going to tell you about Taoism. I don’t claim to 
know all about Taoism but perhaps it has more power in China 
than any other religion. The Taoists believe in a Heaven and a 
Hell, but to us it is a very strange kind of Heaven and Hell. They 
believe that if any part of the human body has been injured that 
person cannot enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. One of the 
missionaries, whom | know, had one of these women working for 
her and this woman was very faithful and after she had been work- 
ing for the missionary for some time she became a humble follower 
of Jesus. So one morning she said to this missionary, | have such 
a terrible pain in my heart and this lady told her to go to the 
doctor but she would not go, she said she didn’t think that the doc- 
tor would be interested in such a poor creature as she, but the lady 
said “‘you go and see,” so she went and the doctor pronounced the 
dread disease, cancer. He said | cannot cure you, but I can pro- 
long your life, | can save the pain if you will permit an operation, 
are you willing? The woman said, | am very willing, but my 
sons would not allow it. The doctor said your sons are not sup- 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 363 


porting you, | don’t think that they should have any right to inter- 
fere. The woman said, that is true, but my sons are Taoists and 
she went and talked to her sons and in a few days returned to the 
doctor and he insisted upon the operation but she said no, they will 
not let me, I do not believe in this Taoism, but they will not let 
me and through it all she was meek and uncomplaining. But she 
could not do her work and went back to her sons’ home to die. 
The woman said to the missionary, “O, 1 am so afraid.” The 
missionary said, “I know you are suffering, but surely you are not 
afraid to go to Jesus, and then all your suffering will be over,’ and 
she said, ““No, I am not afraid of that, but they are going to take 
me out here on the hill.” The poor woman died unexpectedly, be- 
fore her sons were able to put into execution their dire threat, and 
then all the mockery of a Taoist funeral was gone through and the 
sons had a free fight over the body of the poor woman. At a 
Taoist funeral they throw a rooster over the coffin and leave any 
amount of paper money at the grave. They carry the body out at 
the back door and around a winding path because they are afraid 
of the spirit returning and they say the spirit cannot walk a 
crooked road. They leave rice and wine and money at the grave, 
but not one thing is done for the soul of that poor woman. Is it 
any concern of ours that Chinese souls are passing over every day 
without any other kind of religion than this Tacismr The Bible 
says “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the last of these, ye have 
done it unto me.”’ 

In Pekin, the people were holding a convention and several ad- 
dresses were given and every part of the program was taken by 
Christian young men and women of the Chinese nation. 
In Henchow, China, two thousand students marched down one of 
the streets carrying a cross and on that cross was written these 
words: “By this sign, we conquer’, and now they have a Union 
Presbyterian college in Canton. 

Then I come to the place that | know most about, where for 
over twenty years my husband and I[ lived and worked. There 
are over four thousand church organizations with many thousand 
members. In the whole land today they are dotted the length and 
breadth of that land and you can hear the people calling the name 
of Jesus. 

If you stop on a hot day to rest under the trees 1n the park be- 


304 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


side the Inn, someone will come out from the Inn and give you a 
chair and he will tell you all about how he came to know Jesus. 
Many times people have asked me, are you not discouraged with 
missionary work, so many times you see such grave hardships, but 
I would go back. I do not know when the heathen world will be 
won for Christ, but He has never led a losing battle. 

I say it without fear of contradiction that God has no money 
but what we give back to Him; He has no feet to go on errands of 
light; He has no voice to use but our own voices which he has 
given us and we must use them if we carry on His work. 

We have been listening for just a little while tonight to the 
radiophone of God and if we listen just a little more closely 
tonight from many nations and tongues we can hear the sound of 
thousands, of ten thousand voices singing the song—‘Worthy is 
the Lamb that was slain to receive power and glory and honor.” 
He is counting on you for a love that will share in His burden of 
cleansing with His life blood through sorrow and pain. He is 
counting on you, 1f you fail Him, what then, He is counting on 
you. O, the glory and grace to look Christ in the face and not be 
ashamed; to give of your all for his name, for his sake. He was 
counting on you and you failed Him, you failed Him, what then? 

May it be the portion of every member of this Church that at 
the last great day, God will say to each one, “Well done, thou good 
and faithful servant.” 


Hymn No. 401 


Introduction of Charles H. Bierkemper, Winchester, Idaho, by 
Miss Robinson. 


“WINNING: THE WEST PORSCHES Ts 


It is only necessary for me to say that | am glad to be back 
home, that is all the introduction that | am going to give you. 

The subject which was given me tonight is “Winning the West 
for Christ”. [I don’t know who did it, I didn’t, but | am going to 
take the liberty to change that a little bit and my subject tonight 
is, “How to Win the West for Christ.” The west is largely misun- 
derstood. With a large number of people we are still the Wild and 
Wooly West, with the blood thirsty Indians and the wild cow boys 
shooting a pistol in the air. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 305 


The only place that I have seen a locked door is in Kittanning. 
I don’t know why you lock your doors, can you tell mer We 
would be ashamed to have a brass band play Gospel hymns during 
a trial at court. What is the matter with Kittanning? We are 
not the wild, wooly west that is a thing of the past, nor is the west 
fully civilized or fully Christianized. In fact, the west has never 
been conquered. 

dheéreas One verse, the third» verse of the first Chapter of 
Joshua, to which I wish to invite your attention: “Every place 
that the soul of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto 
you, as | said unto Moses’. That promise has as yet never been 
fulfilled. It 1s God’s promise to the Church. And now | am 
speaking of our own preserved country. There are, in regard to 
territory, vast acres of rich, fertile soil that as yet have never been 
touched, it is simply waiting for the man or the woman to till it. 
In regard to the mineral resources, in large sections simply the sur- 
face of the ground has only been scratched, that and nothing more. 
Vast timber forests have never yet heard the blow of the wood- 
man’s axe. 

It was my privilege but last summer about this time to take 
one of the most wonderful trips in all my experience, out into what 
we call Fish Lake in Idaho County. You anglers, 1f you want a 
paradise, go out there. If you cast your fly out into the lake, you 
will see from twelve to twenty trout. After leaving there and 
going down to what you and I here would call the Allegheny river, 
but there, Clear Water, into the little town of Clear Water, then 
from there to the Midway House on the high mountain, down over 
that mountain into the valley. The mountain on which the half- 
way house is located is about six or seven thousand feet. Then 
from that up on to a mountain seventy-five hundred feet high; 
from there then go down into Fish Lake. Just a short distance 
from where we were camped was this beautiful mountain. It is the 
only place I have been where they used snow shoes on the horses. 
In order to get the mineral out of that section, walking on snow 
fifteen and twenty feet deep, it is necessary to put snow shoes on 
the horses. 

A long time ago in that section there was a little old Chinaman, 
dried up, for fifty-three years he said he was going to die. Since that 
vast territory has been almost deserted, no one yet knows of the 
immense wealth in that territory. 


300 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Then let me go a little farther. Let us go into the upper part 
of Stephens County, Washington. A moment ago ! was speaking 
of Idaho, now I am speaking of Washington where I was located 
for five years. Some of the richest, most productive of all lands, 
raising all kinds of fruit. Did you ever see the Bing Cherry? 
You can’t raise the Bing Cherry here in the East and friends, there 
are thousands of acres of land that you may have for ten dollars 
an acre. I know this soil is productive, but I cannot begin to tell 
you the richness of the soil. Then, we are accomplishing great 
things and if you remember the last time I spoke to you from this 
pulpit | told you that the West is speaking to the East and making 
a great request from you. I also said if you will not aid us in 
giving us prohibition, we are going to force you to do it, we will 
make you sorry, at least, by the next primary election. 

In this State we are making great advancement in other lines. 
We have some wonderful roads out there. About sixty-five miles 
from where I| live at the present time, but of course you can reach 
it at a shroter distance, is a canyon that is only excelled by the 
Grand Canyon of Colorado. I am speaking of the Grand Canyon 
of Salmon River and probably not one hundred people have ever 
seen the grandeur of that cataract. The road makers in the past 
would take their immense iron drills and drill in the rock, make 
the drills stationary and put logs back of them and build the 
wagon road from that. One of the greatest highways in the coun- 
try 1s being erected and that is the grade between Winchester and 
Coldeson, which is now in course of erection and is a very great 
undertaking. 


Then let us look at it in other lines. In the Lusten tracts just 
a couple of years ago I think it was from five acres of land the 
owner received 1n one year’s time over $7,000.00 in raising lettuce. 
We are doing great things there, but of course, no one knows when 
it is going to end. 

Then we are doing great things in the spiritual line. We heard 
tonight that the largest Presbyterian Church in the world is in 
Africa. Do you know, friends, that the largest Presbyterian 
Church in the United States is in Seattle, Washington; a church 
of over six thousand, more than six times the numerical number 
of this congregation. 

Then | may speak of other large denominations, other larce 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 367 


churches, Spokane, two thousand, the Universal Church, about two 
thousand, the Legion Church in Portland, Oregon, God 1s mani- 
festing Himself there also. 

Then | might speak of the church institutions scattered all over 
the various States, how they are training the young men and wo- 
men for the Gospel ministry and for Christian work. This is just 
simply a great work and now I am ready to ask the question, How 
may the West be won for the Lord Jesus Christ? 


Shortly after entering upon my present field, a middle aged 
man, at the close of the morning services, said to me, | have tried 
a great many times to see you. Will you come up to my house 
some day? I want to talk to you, so of course, [| went up. He 
said, Mr. Bierkemper, | want to be a member of the Church, but 
| am afraid you will not receive me. I said, the Church door is 
open. He said, yes, but | want you to understand my position; | 
said, what is that? He said, I have to work on Sunday, | am the 
night engineer. I said, is that work necessary? He said, you 
would have no lights unless I do. I said, are you satisfied before 
God that you are doing right in that work? He said, I am, then 
| said, we cannot deny you the membership of this Church. But 
here is the interesting thing. Just a short time ago, we had no 
bricklayers in that section, and do you know, that is the trade of 
the Bierkempers?’ 


They found out that | was a bricklayer. He asked me if I 
would build a chimney and I said yes. Right two doors south of 
him is a man by the name of Rouse and he said this man Rouse 
and I are related, but I am sorry for it. In 1606 he said I believe 
my forefathers came to this country, that is a long way back, and 
Rouse’s part of the family had never any interest in Christianity, 
but on the other side, here is this interesting history, the grand- 
mother of John Davison would never live near the railroad. 
When the railroad came within hearing distance she moved farther 
away but wherever she went she and her daughter carried with 
them the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. 


During March we had a very interesting series of meetings and 
one evening rather a tall man, very muscular came to me with a 
trembling voice and said, “I must settle this question tonight”. 
That man is not only a barber but a would-be pugilist, a wrestler, 
and after his decision for Christ it was my privilege to read the 


368 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


letter which he wrote to his aged mother and at the close of that 
letter was a prayer that Fred Marsh made to his mother eighty- 
two years of age and at the close of that letter he said, “My dear 
mother of mine, it is a long many years since your boy knelt before 
you in prayer, your boy has tried to get away from that, but he 
has always heard your voice and now mother mine, | want again 
this night to kneel before your knees 1n prayer,’ and O, what a 
beautiful prayer that would-be pugilist wrote to his aged mother. 


Then, let me go on a little further. We look to the West as the 
home of the Indian and about 1805 two men from the east took a 
westward journey to see what it was—to become acquainted with 
the Indian, Lewis and Clark, they passed through the section in 
which I am located and in 1825, not quite one hundred years ago, 
four of the Indians started on the long eastward journey. They 
had a wonderful book, they called it the White Man’s Book. 
Eventually they landed in St. Louis and the people were surprised 
to see a people wholly unknown to that section, who they were 
and where they came from. Mr. Clark said, | know these people, 
do not bother them. They will soon tell me what they want. In 
time they told what their mission was. They had heard of a won- 
derful book, and they came for that book. They were treated 
royally and left with their hands and arms loaded with presents. 
One died in St. Louis, his grave is in a Catholic burying ground. 


On the night preceding the day they were started on_ their 
westward journey, one man made this comment, “We have traveled 
many moons in order to find the White Man’s Book. You have 
treated us as no other people has ever treated us, but the White 
Man’s Book was not there. You have taken us to places where the 
white woman dances as the Indian woman would be ashamed to 
dance and you are breaking my arms with the weight of these 
presents, but the White Man’s Book I have not found. I go back 
to my own people worn out, arms breaking with the multitude of 
eifts, and find my friends sitting in the counsel chamber and tell 
my people that the White Man’s Book is not there and not a word 
will be said, but one by one they will withdraw from the counsel 
chamber into utter darkness. I came here with one eye partly 
opened, | now return with both eyes blind, | have no more words. 


This story was published in the Pittsburgh Advocate in Pitts- 
burgh, Pennsylvania. See how closely we are united. Whitman 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 3609 


read that article and he said, “By the Grace of God, those People 
shall have the White Man’s Book.” He was commissioned by 
the American Board, before the present board was formed, to meet 
with the Indians in Utah, they sent back to the East some of their 
Indian boys and he married a young lady. And then the board 
said, Marcus, you can’t go into this territory alone, you get some 
other one to go with you, there is a young minister, recently mar- 
ried, on his way to Oklahoma, Spaulding, overtake him, lay the 
conditions before him and you and Spaulding go together. After 
a long journey they overtook Spaulding, went into a hotel and 
talked over the conditions. Mrs. Spaulding was a woman of 
strong faith. She said to her husband and Dr. Whitman, “While 
you men talk over this important subject | will withdraw to my 
room and lay the matter before God.” Shortly she came back to 
the men and said, “We will. go to Oregon.” Sometime after, 
Whitman was in what 1s now known as Washington, the head- 
quarters of the Hudson Bay Trading Company, and heard a 
Catholic Priest besides others, say, “Now, let the United States 
howl, we have got this country for England.” Marcus Whitman 
took a horse, went back home and went to Washington. It was in 
the winter and the officials said, you can’t go, it is foolishness, you 
will perish, but Whitman said, “I am going.” Friends, all that 
vast territory, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, was saved for the 
United States by that heroic ride of Marcus Whitman as he was 
determined that that country should belong to the United States. 
After the death of Spaulding he located at a place about twenty 
miles over the mountain from where I am located. There was a 
let-up in that work until an Indian of the Catholic Church came in 
and preached the wonderful Gospel. A great revival took place 
and the McBeth sisters from Ohio were called to that section and 
they worked up and down, all through that great land. 

About this time there was a great war among certain tribes of 
Indians, but not a Christian Indian gave to that war. There was 
a great conflict in this tribe, and there was as there is today, the 
Christian Indian or the Protestant Indian, the Catholic and the 
heathen. These Indians were noted for gambling and selling one 
another’s wives. Rev. James Hice says, “This must stop, and from 
now on the Christian people cannot and dare not affiliate them- 
selves with the heathen in their celebration. We will have a 


Y 


370 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Fourth of July celebration of our own.” | cannot take time to 
tell the entire story, but it is sufficient to say this, that about all 
the devilish things they could possibly think of, they heaped on the 
head of that splendid woman, Miss McBeth. They said, “If we 
can only get rid of her.’”’ One day in the celebration the Christians 
gathered about three miles on down the valley. The heathen 
gathered farther down the valley. They said “we are going into 
the Christian encampment and show that devilish woman that she 
cannot run us.’ [They came in a great body, by the hundreds, 
fully equipped for war. James Hice said to one of their party, 
“You stand at the gate and say to them, not one step farther.” 
The guard did and here came that army, men, women and chil- 
dren dressed in war paint, going to compel their brothers and sis- 
ters to enter back into the heathen way. That guard stood out 
fearlessly and said, “Not one step farther.”” The day was won. 
I would, friends, that you could see a congregation of those 
Indians holding religious services, it is a beautiful sight. For 
two weeks on a mountain about fifty-five hundred feet high, there 
is a large encampment and we have the Indians that gather there 
for two weeks in Christian worship. You say, “Who are the min- 
istersr’”’? We have a minister who is a full blooded Indian. If 
you should be there at the last night of that wonderful Christian 
encampment under a tent in which the capacity is about two thous- 
and or more, there on a large platform you would see from fifty 
to seventy-five full blooded Indian men and women in a mighty 
chorus and your ear will be thrilled as you listen to those men and 
women of the plains sing some of the wonderful anthems of the 
Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

One of the great purposes of that annual encampment is to 
arrange for the next year’s work and already the Indians are send- 
ing missionaries into every tribe in the northwest some two and 
three months every year. 

How may we win the West for Jesus Christ? Let me enum- 
erate. If you want to be successful, choose your. grandmother. 
If you want to be successful in God’s sight, don’t choose your 
erandmother, but your great grandmother for a strong follower 
of the Lord Jesus Christ. The second answer is this, if you want 
to win the west for the Lord Jesus Christ, never in God’s name 
neglect the family altar. Third, go to the West in among even 
the worst of heathen with the blessed Gospel. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 371 


There is a statement of a large building which is in the course 
of erection. A visitor spoke to three different workmen. He said 
to one, “What are you doing’? “I am hewing stone.”. He went 
to a second one and he said, “What are you doing’? “I am cut- 
ting stone for $5.00 a day.” He went to the third man and said, 
“What are you doing’? “I am building a cathedral. By the 
grace of God, what are you doing? Simply hewing stone, simply 
working for wages, or are you in your life building a cathedral for 
the Almighty God? 


Hymn No. 409 
Prayer by Dr. Hutchison 


THURSDAY EVENING, AUGUST 31, 1922 


Organ Prelude—‘‘Supplication” 
Hymn No. 611 
Prayer by Rev. H. H. Nicholson 


Solo by Mrs. Mary Graham Mead; Accompanist, Paul Brown 
Copley, Jr. 


Reading of Letters of Regret, by Dr. W. J. Hutchison 
Address by Dr. R. C. Bowling, D. D. 


1 am afraid, Brother Hutchison, you would have a heavy load 
to carry 1f you carried my vices in connection with your own. | 
also, at the opening of this meeting, feel that a precaution that | 
intended to have and which | had jotted down that :] might say it 
right was this, | have been here at the former meeting or two | 
notice that there was something said about the effort to put the 
extinguisher on, or to shut off the scent of gas, but to pull the coat 
tail has run amuck, but we don’t want to run amuck tonight. 

During the years that | have been in this town and the rela- 
tions that I have had with this congregation as well as the rest of 
the town, 1s such that I feel that I am pretty well wound up and that 
| could make a fairly long speech if the privilege were accorded 
to me and if there were no guard put on my ‘work and effort. 
Silence gives consent, | may start: 


372. ~~ ~History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The other day as I was walking up street, a gentleman came 
out of his house, (I believe he honored me by calling me Doctor, 
I don’t know why, but he did that,) and he said, “I just wonder 
if you have a copy of this beautiful souvenir!” [| looked at it and 
it was twenty years old. On the one side was a handsome picture 
of Rev. Diffenbacher who had just preceded me in the ministry 
here. On the other side was the picture of R. C. Bowling. The 
very fact that this gentleman presented it seemed to give me 
keynote for this talk. “I thought perchance you didn’t have one 
of these,” and I said, “If I don’t have one of them, some of our 
people ought to have kept them.” The gentleman’s name was 
Jack and | thought of old Father Jack and then my mind went 
back to one of the most faithful music people in this city, Miss 
Jennie and | acknowledge she could be depended upon. If this is 
helpful to the present choirs I will be very thankful, because the 
choir is somewhat of a proposition in nearly every church and 
that very fact of twenty years ago put me to figuring on how much 
longer I had been in Kittanning than that book indicated, and 
then | ascertained that I had been here nearly twenty years longer 
than that and | said to myself, it is sixty years this Presbyterian 
Church has been here before | knew anything of it. Then | was 
reminded that when I was at school, somewhere | had heard it 
said that there were three periods in history, the ancient, the me- 
diaeval, or dark ages, and modern and it occurred to me _ that 
Senator Meredith and Brother Hulings and others in the church, 
and about the half of them I think would be considered as belong- 
ing to the middle age period, or dark ages, and that Dr. Hutchison 
and the rest belong to modern history. 

The present, you know, 1s simply the child of the past and it 
is the woman from which the future is to be born-and the greatness 
of this church and I think all who have studied it and observed it 
know that it is a grand and remarkable organization, that its roots 
are grounded way down in something wonderfully deep and it be- 
longed to the period that long ago preceded us and there is a whole 
lot of danger today in your branch of the church and mine to 
wander from the moorings that kept us close to the cross. | 
tremble when I| think of some things and modern ideas that have 
come to prevail in this religion of Christ, the Eternal Son of God, 
our only Friend in life and death. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 373 


When I first came to this town | think about all the ministers 
from the different churches came to visit me. I hadn’t been here 
very long until our first Ministerial Association met, and I remem- 
ber we were going to be a real good jolly bunch of fellows and 
work together. Those were the days that you could get fish in 
Crooked Creek and we arranged to go fishing and my. first recollec- 
tion of the pastor of this church was the very exceedingly un- 
pleasant night that we spent at Cochran’s Mill. It wasn’t a very 
pleasant night for any of us. We hadn’t been accustomed to 
sleeping in a barn under the hay, but 1t was worse for poor Mr. 
Mayers. His boy Lou set up a howl. We had to take Lou along, 
and we had as much trouble with him as we had with the mosqui- 
toes. It was the following week after that that | had my first direct 
introduction to the Presbytery. The Presbytery was meeting in 
the basement, the lower room of Hose House No. | and Mr. Mayers 
introduced me to the Moderator. He looked at me a little bit and 
says, “Of the Reformed Church.” He said, “I respect you because 
| feel that your branch of the church, perhaps is not growing num- 
erically as fast as ours, but that you are maintaining or trying to 
maintain your Heidelburg Catechism. Many of our ministers 
have become discouraged: Pastors of the Presbyterian Church 
and others, who believe in it, have become discouraged, because our 
youth don’t seem to want to learn of the teaching of our Holy 
religion.” I felt the other night when Prof. Ewing was speaking, 
Oh, 1f the young people could know what they are missing, but 
failing to get the ground work, the meaning of the Rock, instead 
of having their religion simply a thing spread on the surface, what 
a grand thing it would be. He congratulated me because of my 
effort, and do you know, I have never forgot that and | have tried 
my best with every young person, not to make them a Christian 
with that book, but to ground them, especially in these awful days, 
in the faith that has been delivered unto the Saints. 

He also added another word there and that leads me even more 
closely to this Presbyterian Church than the other because the 
other could be considered independent, but this isn’t. He spoke 
then of the Church of Switzerland and the contemporary of Martin 
Luther, a man, and representing a system intense with the demo- 
cracy of those Presbyterians in Switzerland. The falling together 
later on, more in person, by the teaching of John Calvin who 


- 374 ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


formulated a faith which Zwingli had not formulated. His was 
more political, but the way was paved and when Dr. Donaldson 
referred to the motherhood of Presbyterianism in that particular 
sense that deeply impressed me. This is the dark age I am talk- 
ing in, and | say here tonight, thank the people of this present age 
for the fact of the kindness, for it seemed to me that if the old 
mother Church of Switzerland inspired the greatness of Calvin’s 
work, it seems that the. same should work here. 

It seems to me that the older element of the Presbyterian 
Church of Kittanning recognizes the necessity of a stronger church 
helping to mother a weak one. I always held everyone of those 
as especially sacred because we are one color, therefore recognize 
that the relationship existing at that time was pretty close. That 
while there were great differences and while there will be as time 
goes on, yet one grand, sweet thought must emanate from the 
whole family of us. 

Another fact that developed grew out in two directions with 
many. The one was an effort on the part of one who was then a 
strong leader but who didn’t reside here, to have me removed from 
Kittanning. The outlook didn’t seem very good for God hadn't 
foreordained that it should be so. I didn’t go, though I could 
have easily more than doubled my support had | accepted. An- 
other thought was that this town as large as it was hardly support- 
ed two Presbyterian Churches. The second church was the church 
that 1s now occupied by our Baptist brethren. 

An effort was set on foot, there were three or four meetings held. 
The officers of that Presbyterian Church who met us were Mr. 
Ralston, Mr. Gates, Mr. McCain, Mr. Bovard and an elder who 
has passed over to his glorious reward, those five men met and we 
had several meetings. There seemed to be no great difference. 
The thought seemed to be that the Presbyterian element would be 
willing to bear with me as a preacher and they very kindly would 
contribute the church that they had and practically paid for and 
we were to take what we could sell our property for and come and 
see how the dark ages worked; everything worked alright to unite 
those two churches until they came to naming the baby. It didn’t 
name very good, it didn’t name as good as that story that I heard 
of one time where the father and mother hadn’t settled what they 
were going to call the child and the child was fussing and making 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 2 ie 


a great noise and all at once the father said, “give it a name’, for 
the preacher was getting worried and he said he would name it 
himself, he said we will call it Beelzebub, and the mother said, 
-“Q;. no; 4t’s: a: girl,” 

There is another thing in connection with this that is rather 
interesting and which | think you people who belong to the modern 
era will be pleased to know. At the time each one was trying to 
get a home there was a very successful plan carried through which 
resulted in a four-fold way. The first of it was this that the 
Presbyterians owned the old No. | Hose House and ours was the 
Methodist Protestant Church across the way. The Methodist 
Protestants themselves occupied a frame building that belonged to 
the Fox estate. The Foxes wanted to tear the building down and 
put a dwelling house on it. The Presbyterians were wanting to 
get out somehow and to build up here and | guess they had started 
to build, but in doing so they sold their property to the Methodist 
Protestants, who couldn’t use their frame building any more, for 
$5,000.00. They had $3,000.00 that they were able to pay the 
Presbyterians and they were $2,000.00 in debt and that matter 
was taken up but the Sunday School here wanted to make some 
improvements and do some Sunday School work and they wanted 
some money. About that time the council of the city became 
very generous and they concluded to help the fire company and 
there was $6,000.00 voted for the benefit of the fire company, 
$5,000.00 to one company and $1,000.00 to the other company. 
The hose company first came and said, that church of the Re- 
formed people will make a good hose house, but it was no good, 
the lower story was too low, then the great thought flashed upon 
somebody’s mind, “Why not turn that thing around, the old 
Presbyterian Church will do first rate; these people are two thous- 
and dollars in debt anyway; if they get $5,000.00, what’s the mat- 
ter with the buy?” “They want $2,500.00 for the Reformed 
Church, why not do that, then let them take the other $2,000.00 
and pay off the indebtedness.” The thing worked out and we often 
think of that as a wonderful page in history. The Hose Company 
No. | got a building even if they did not have to build it. They 
have a wonderful hall which probably has not always been used as 
it ought to have been used. So goes the world, people differ in 
their way of doing things, but they did get their hose house. St. 


376 ~—s History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Luke’s Reformed Church got $2,500.00 cash, the Presbyterian 
people got their $2,000.00 and the Methodist Protestants got a 
Church free of debt, those four items came in in one place. It 
was during those ages when these great conceptions of a more com- 
modious church were spoken of struck this congregation and it 
didn’t end with them and the progress of all the different churches 
has been very good. I feel that with those things resting upon us 
in our church relations in life this ought to be the great red letter 
day for this congregation and for others. It ought to be the joy 
of the people of God to find, in these years in this awful age of 
difference in opinion, that the people of God, the elect, are stand- 
ing for Him, following the cross our fathers followed, clinging to 
the things that were sacred to our fathers. 

But of the people that I learned to know twenty or thirty years 
ago, the other day as | sat up there with one who has also gone 
over, we looked around us and I said to her, “I can count fourteen 
tombstones that I have stood at the graves over which they are 
the marks.” I could count them around where we were sitting 
and | said to myself, “What an army.of people, O, what an army 
of the redeemed have gone out from here. Is it that they went 
out as dreamers? Would we fail as we laid them away that the 
best that was in us was giving them an honest and noble marker 
to tell that somebody used to live in Kittanning? 

You think of your church, not the people who worship here 
from Sabbath to Sabbath, the many that ought to worship 
from Sabbath to Sabbath, but are not in their accustomed places. 
We don’t always think, brethren, of what this church and _ its 
sacredness means for us now and will mean for us when we come 
to the end. I am glad that | have been permitted to live and to 
have sufficient fidelity and energy to.feel young, as young as | did 
forty years ago. 

If it were my last word I would say that you have had a splen- 
did history for the first sixty years that | knew nothing of except 
from hearsay and in the forty that | have been with you, including 
the middle and dark ages, when our work began and through 
modern history. I have faith and do feel that you stand upon the 
threshold of wonderful things. May God bless you and keep 
you faithful and crown you ever with his glory now and forever. 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning BTL 


Reminiscences by Mr. Joseph Painter, Rev. Walter Kennedy, 
Rev. Elder D. Crawford, D. D., Rev. Harry B. Clawson, and 
Reve Al ELCurry. 


Hymn No. 665 


Benediction by Rev. Dwyer 


FRIDAY EVENING, SEPTEMBER 1, 1922 


Preparatory Services to the Communion 
Organ—“Berceuse”’ 


Hymn No. 321 





Scripture Lesson by Rev. Harry B. Clawson 
Prayer by Rev. Earl W. Terry 
Anthem—"‘Sanctus” by Church Quartette 
Hymn No. 602 


Sermon by Rev. Calvin C. Hays, D. D., Moderator of the 134th 
General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the U. S. A. 


I certainly appreciate the kind words of introduction. I am 
well aware of the fact that the only reason | am Moderator of the 
General Assembly is because | belong to Pennsylvania and _ per- 
haps because | belong to Western Pennsylvania, for it seemed to 
be our turn. I appreciate very much the invitation to be with you 
on this occasion, partly because of what has been mentioned by the 
pastor in his introduction. 

| think that the year 1822 must have been a great year in the 
history of the Presbyterian Church in Western Pennsylvania, if 
[ may judge by the number of centennials that they are having in 
this part of the country and also in Ohio. I know | have accepted 
invitations to be present at some of them and | know also that | 
have found it impossible to be present at a good many more of 
them. 

It was a great time in this section that was then regarded as a 
destitute region because I recall that it was only six years before 
this church was organized that a Board of Home Missions was 


378 — History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


organized. The first of the boards of our church organized partly 
that they might be able to preach the Gospel in the destitute 
regions of Western Pennsylvania and some other parts a little 
farther West. We are in this region the heirs of a great inheri- 
tance, we are the children of the promises, and we do well to recall 
the past and try to seek out our responsibility and our duty in the 
light of that which has gone before us and so | rejoice to have a 
little part with you in this centennial celebration. [| want to con- 
gratulate you not only upon having completed your one hundred 
years, but also upon the great success of the services which you 
have planned and which have been so delightfully carried out. 

Let me now turn your attention for a little towards what has 
been suggested to me of what you are doing and of that which has 
gone before, but you will find in the last verse of this notable and 
familiar chapter, the Eleventh Chapter of Hebrews, “God having 
provided some better thing for us, that they without us should 
not be made perfect.” I do think that here we have one of the 
most remarkable statements in the whole Bible, well worthy of 
our consideration. Let me read the whole sentence embracing 
two verses—‘‘And these all, having obtained a good _ report 
through faith, received not the promise: God having provided 
some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made 
perfect.’ In more modern translations of the New Testament 
and also by their faith all these people won God’s approval, none 
of them received the fulfillment of his promise, for God had_pro- 
vided something better. Do you not see the magnificent sweep of 
this statement, how it ties the past with the present, links the 
present with both the future and the past and makes all believers 
one in their ambitions and purposes? 

Our President, during the war, said that we had gone into the 
war to make a democracy known to the world, then somebody 
said, we better see first that we have a democracy that 1s safe for 
the world, and [| particularly call attention to this verse in that con- 
nection. Probably some of us had never thought of these words, but 
let us see—" These all receive much good, but they did not get God’s 
best for the reason that there were other people to be taken account 
of, some who were living at that time and some not born, who were 
needed to fulfill God’s purposes, that they without us should not 
be made perfect. Do you not see the thought there that we are 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 379 


all bound up together? Look into the dictionary, it is a form of 
Government, a Government in which every one has a part and for 
which all have a responsibility or as Lincoln phrases it, “A Gov- 
ernment of the people, by the people and for the people.” That 
no city, nor community nor nation can attain its best without the 
help of all. | 

We are now finding out in this land of ours that where 
righteousness is exalted, it 1s because of the fact that the Christian 
people of the community or of the Commonwealth assert them- 
selves, and where the wicked rule, the good people stay at home 
and let them. What a great responsibility that puts upon us for 
it certainly follows “that they without us are not made perfect.” 
Then they, without me, | may say or you may say, are not made 
perfect. Are we doing our part and are we worthy members of 
the democracy of which we boast and of which we are proud. 
This much, however, is certain that what I have been saying is 
true of the nation is also true of the Church. We are bound up 
together as Christian people. What affects you affects me, you 
rejoice, | rejoice as a Christian men. You weep, I weep. Cuir- 
cumstances are bringing us closer together as Christian people in 
this land and all over the world. New inventions are bringing us 
closer together and what new interest this gives or ought to give 
in all our missionary endeavors for we are workers together 
throughout this land and all lands we are one. 

This thought was beautifully brought out at our recent General 
Assembly when the report of the Committee on Home Missions 
was being presented by the chairman, a man from the Pacific 
Coast. We know that the missionary 1s nothing without the board 
and we know that the board is nothing without the missionary. 
They are parties and both are helpless without the Assembly and 
the Assembly nothing were it not for the scattered churches. How 
true those words are I would like to sound them throughout the 
whole land. The chairman went on to say that while Whitman 
of Oregon is gone, who did so much for the Indian tribe, Higson 
of the north, whose names are so familiar to us in the missionary 
annals, there are others, there are men living and working out in 
our frontier ready to meet the new situations which arrive with 
the same faith and courage and certainty of conquest as these 
men who have gone. Were it not for the missionaries the cause of 


380. ~~ History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Christ could not have been carried forward. They without us and 
we without them are not made perfect, but now | want to pass to 
another thing. I have been leading your minds in the thought of 
the relationship between those who are living now, but let me 
speak now of the interdependence of the past upon the present and 
of the present upon the past. The other is intended here but 
especially is this made clear that they without us are not made 
perfect. 

These people who were living a long time ago, something was 
lacking in their life and their experience which is for us to make 
up. Here is a democracy reaching back into the ages and linking 
together the church on earth with the church in heaven. It is a 
tremendous thought that faith 1s not made perfect without ours. | 
wish to refer to this in the present that your father and my father 
and my mother and your mother need your testimony and mine 
to complete theirs and that their work and their ambitions are 
not complete unless rounded up and ratified by your faithfulness 
and mine. 

Take Abraham for example, we are told that he went to look 
for something, but we know this, that he was looking for a city 
which had foundations, whose builder and maker was God. It 
looks to me as though Abraham had lived in a city and was not 
satisfied with it. He wanted a better city. Cain was the founder 
of the first city and we have been having trouble with cities ever 
since. He was a murderer and a fugitive and a vagabond in the 
earth. Abraham had experience with cities and his nephew Lot be- 
came very near being engulfed in Sodom. Abraham looked into 
the future and longed for a city built in righteousness. He never 
found such a city and there never will be such a city on earth 
without your help and mine and those who are living now. You 
say it 1s our privilege as Christian citizens to work into godly 
Abrahams, progress and purpose or anything that any of us does 
to help bring about a better state of righteousness in the world is 
helping him to realize his dreams. These all, Abraham included, 
“God having provided some better thing for us, that they without 
us should not be made perfect.” And there was Paul, what great 
ambitions he had when he was on the earth. How ambitious he 
was to preach the Gospel and organize churches here and how 
ambitious he was to preach the Gospel in Rome. At that time he 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 381 


accomplished much but could not do it all. When he had done 
his best and laid down his work, he passed it on to others and 
others passed it on to us. In all our great church and missionary 
movements we are helping Paul and the early missionaries to real- 
ize their dreams of a Kingdom of Christ spread throughout the 
earth. Their lives and their achievements are not complete with- 
out ours and they without us are not made perfect. 

Perhaps some of you know that | have just returned from a 
trip to Alaska. A vacation trip and yet I was there chiefly in order 
to look over our large stations. On the way | was privileged to 
meet with Synods of Washington, Oregon and Montana, in the 
northwestern country, and | have been thinking very much in this 
connection of Jason Lee and Marcus Whitman and those early 
missionaries to whom the United States is so much indebted, for 
that great Oregon country embraces such a vast section. 

These men and their heroic wives had somehow or other gained 
a conception of what that country might some day be. They 
realized that 1t was a place where there would some day be a great 
population. They wanted it for the United States, they would 
win it for the King Immanuel. God had some better thing for 
us, that they without us should not be made perfect. And the 
same is true, to a great extent, of Alaska and yet they do not 
stop to consider that perhaps 1f we had first of all secured the 
Oregon country we would not have had Alaska and so far as 
Alaska is concerned with all its riches, for the most part are stored 
up for coming days when they will be needed. Throughout the ~ 
United States we are indebted and also to a very considerable ex- 
tent to men like Sheldon Jackson who were there at the first open- 
ing up of the country, who claimed it not only for the United 
States but for the King [mmanuel. And so, when we come _ to 
think of Western Pennsylvania, let us never forget how much we 
are indebted to the men of sterling faith and charity, many of 
whom were of our own denomination who came from the other side 
of the Allegheny and claimed this country for God, founding our 
churches here and academies and colleges. Rejoice in the fact 
that we are living in a country which was early claimed by the 
servants of the King and count it an honor and privilege that we 
should give ourselves to the same blessed service for our God calls 
us and the ministers call us. As we have entered into our labors, 


382 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


continue on in the fight by preaching the same Gospel and doing 
with faithfulness our work as Lincoln said at Gettysburg so let 
me say in paraphrase—‘‘As we think of the early history of our 
country we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot 
hallow this ground.” It is already dedicated, it 1s hallowed by 
what they did here.” It 1s for us to dedicate ourselves to the same 
ereat principle for which they gave themselves. That this 1s 
God’s country; that America must have the best and that for 
America we must do our best. Did you ever notice that it is in 
the verse immediately following the verse of my text that those 
familiar words occur which were read tonight in regard to that 
crowd of witnesses? These very persons who have been referred 
to, 1f they were looking down, what | want to say is that if these 
old worthies were looking down upon us, these good men and 
women who founded our churches and institutions, as your father 
and my father and your mother and my mother have gone to glory, 
are looking down upon us, as I believe they are, we may be sure 
that they are intensely interested in every battle we fight for God. 
In every stand we take for Christ, the same force they contained 
when they were here is contained in us. In a few words, the future 
is involved as well as the past. Not the interdependence of the 
present upon the future and of the future upon the present. My 
text looks both ways, it looks forward as well as backward. If 
we are affected by the present and if we are affected by the past, 
it follows that we are molding the future and moreover, those who 
come after us will supplement and round out our efforts. 1 want 
to present that thought to you as a closing and helpful thought. 
In this connection, are we helping others to win our battles or 
to accomplish our great purposes? Others will help us to ac- 
complish our purposes. If Abraham’s work 1s not complete without 
ours, if Paul’s work is not complete without ours and the work of 
these others is not complete without ours, then our work will not 
be complete without the work of those who are to come after us. 
We are only individuals in the great democracy of God. We 
are doing our part, as we believe. We are only builders: in this 
great spiritual temple that is going up. We are only here for a 
little time, lay a few blocks and pass on. If any man build, every 
man’s work shall be manifest as his work abides, he shall receive 
his reward. If it shall be burned he shall suffer loss, he himself 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 383 








shall be saved as by fire. Our work is going on. What we do today 
is determining not only our future testimony and happiness as in- 
dividuals, but it 1s to a great extent determining the welfare of 
coming generations, and moreover, coming generations will build 
upon and paramount our efforts. | want to remind you, therefore, 
in view of this fact, of the importance of Christian service. If 
you are not already a member of the Kingdom of Christ, by all 
means become such because work for Christ is the only kind of 
work that is truly enduring. 

You are about to celebrate your Communion and | was think- 
ing as | was coming along in the train that it isn’t anything that 
we can conceive of that ought to be so calculated to prepare your 
minds and hearts for the great service of the coming Sabbath, as 
simply the recollection of God’s great goodness to you and to us 
and to the memories of the people in the generations past who have 
gathered about this same Sacrament and put their trust in the 
same Lord Jesus to whom you swear anew your allegiance. Let 
us be aroused and governed by the thought that we cannot do all 
In our day, only our part. What we begin, others must continue. 
It may be written of every man as it 1s written of one man in the 
Bible. This man came to build and was not able to finish. It 
may be no reflection on him at all. Those who get everything 
done that they undertake to do are very light people who do not 
undertake very much. One of the things suggested here is that 
our work builds in with that of others, those who have gone be- 
fore and those who are coming after and that nothing that we do 
for God will fail of 1ts reward or fail of its final accomplishment. If 
they, away back there are not made perfect it follows that they, 
away off yonder, are not made perfect, but there is One who 
is looking over the whole undertaking, who will see to it that our 
work done in humility and faith and courage will not fail of its 
ultimate purpose, but bring joy and peace to our hearts. 


Prayer by Rev. H. H. Nicholson. 
Hymn No. 379 


384 History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 
SUNDAY EVENING, SEPTEMBER 3, 1922 


Organ—‘‘In the Twilight” , 
Hymn No. 143 


Scripture Lesson, Hebrews, Chapter 11, 32nd verse, by Dr. Mc- © 
Cormick 


Solo by Mrs. Henderson 
Hymn No. 522 | 
Anthem by Church Quartette 


Sermon by Chancellor Samuel Black McCormick, D.D., Univer- 
sity of Pittsburgh 


What | shall say to you this evening is more in the nature of 
an address than a sermon. Indeed, | had not thought of a text 
and yet those last words that I read will form a very excellent 
foundation for the remarks:—‘“‘And these all, having obtained a 
good report through faith, received not the promise: God having 
provided some better thing for us, that they without us should 
not be made perfect.”’ 

One of the things, I suspect, that you have tried to do since 
last Sabbath, or on last Sabbath, and since, was to imagine to 
yourselves, difficult.as it might be in the beautiful surroundings 
which are yours now, imagine to yourselves the little band of 
Christian men and women, twenty-two in number, who formed this 
organization one hundred years ago. If we could think of them 
as saluting us tonight we would think of them as _ representing 
about three hundred eighteen people here in Kittanning. That was 
the number in 1820 and if this congregation only increased eight in 
the first twelve years of its life I imagine that three hundred 
eighteen people probably constituted the population of Kittanning 
one hundred years ago. They represented one million and forty- 
nine thousand people who, at that time, had gathered in this great 
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. They represented nine million 
six hundred thirty-eight thousand persons who composed _ the 
population of the United States. When this church was organ- 
ized there were a few cities, New York with a population of one 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 385 


hundred fifty-two thousand, Philadelphia with a population of 
sixty-three thousand, Boston with a population of forty-three 
thousand and some other communities of considerable size, of 
course, but in 1820 the people of this country lived chiefly on farms 
and in villages. The Philadelphia-Pittsburgh turnpike had been 
completed five years before this congregation was formed. 

Beginning with the work of the University of Pennsylvania and 
naming Certain students, one of whom was Joseph Buffington, the 
great uncle of our present Judge Buffington, whom | remember as 
sitting on the bench, over what was fifty years ago Westmoreland, 
Indiana and Armstrong, perhaps I am not so sure, but of the 
Judicial District to which at least this county belonged. I think 
that Judge Buffington graduated in 1825. It was the time when 
James Monroe was President and the beginning of that policy 
known as the Monroe Doctrine which has played so large a part 
in the affairs of the Western Hemisphere and will continue to do 
so in the future. 

These twenty-two people represented the most homogeneous 
population perhaps in all the world, at least none more so. For 
these nearly ten millions of people were all born here. It is an 
amazing thing, less amazing when we come to think of the kind 
of vessels they had in those dayssand how long it would take to 
transport people across the sea then, but it is still an amazing 
thought that up to the time when this church was formed not more 
than three hundred fifty thousand people in all, for two centuries, 
had come across the sea and the rest of all the population of 1820 
were born here, nearly all of them, so that they represented the 
most homogeneous people. We have become very different now, 
but they were all of one mind, one spirit, apparently a homogene- 
ous people. John Marshall in 1822 was still interpreting legal 
questions in terms of the Constitution of the United States, giving 
substance and significance to that instrument although a great part 
of his work in this direction had been completed. 

Three classes of people were represented by this little congre- 
gation of one hundred years ago. I did not happen to think of 
this when looking over the names. They are practically, I see, 
Ulster-Scotch, but this great Commonwealth of ours was settled by 
three classes of people. From what we now know as Germany, 
what we know now as the Friend, what we know now as the Ulster- 


386 ~— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


Scotch and nearly all of those who made up this little congregation, 
from glancing over the names, were from the north of Ireland, 
but they represented the Commonwealth, composed of these three 
particular groups of men and women. They were men and wo- 
men of a character that has stamped itself upon this Common- 
wealth and made it 1n spite of what many people would attempt 
to say, the most solid, substantial Commonwealth in all this sis- 
terhood of Commonwealths which make up this great nation, and 
yet, in spite of all that we have said, this country was still in pro- 
cess because not yet was it determined as to whether it would be 
His nation or not, because, notwithstanding what often times we 
have thought as a matter of fact the population of the United 
States in the early period and still in this period when this con- 
eregation was formed, was made up of people who were honest and 
who were dishonest, people who were magnetic, people who were 
envious, people who were interested 1n education and people who 
were very, very ignorant, good people and people who were vicious; 
religious people and people who were very irreligious. So it was 
a great problem in the early period of this country’s history, follow- 
ing the adoption of the Constitution, as to whether we would be- 
come a nation or not and it was not determined until quite a time 
after the people formed this congregation in. Kittanning. And if 
this little group of twenty-two people could speak to us tonight, | 
wonder what they would say and how far we would listen to what 
they would have to say. Let me quote to you what one man said 
on December 21, 1820, speaking to the Pilgrims in New England, 
Daniel Webster, and imagine that these twenty-two people are 
saying it to us: 

“The hours of this day are rapidly flying and this occasion will 
soon be past. Neither we nor our children can expect to behold 
its return. They exist only in the all creating power of God who 
shall stand here one thousand years hence.” Imagine I say that 
these people are speaking to you out of one hundred years ago to 
trace through us and our descendants and to survey as we now sur- 
vey the program of the country during the century. We would 
anticipate their concurrence with us 1n our sentiments of deep re- 
gard for our common ancestors. 

Advance then, ye future generations, we would hail you as you 
rise’In your long succession to fill the places, we now fill to taste 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 387 


the blessings which are now passing and which have passed. We 
bid you welcome to this pleasant land of our fathers, to the verdant 
fields we greet you.” 

And when we listen to the words of Webster speaking to us to- 
day, let us imagine that it 1s these twenty-two forming this first 
congregation that speak to the members who are gathered here a 
century later. Now as we think of that and in the beauty of this 
beautiful edifice, try to take ourselves back to the primitive condi- 
tions of Kittanning one hundred years ago. I think it is well that 
we would listen to what they say and try to form an answer to call 
back every week with cheerful voices to them that we have done 
our part. Can we make this answer to these devoted men and 
women r 

The record of the century 1822 to 1922 is a great record. How 
far has it met the expectations of these ancestors of yours and 
miner How far has this century justified the hope and the expec- 
tations of these twenty-two, not those who were to come after them. 
How far has it actually laid the foundations upon which may still 
be built something very much better than has been possible thus 
far upon which to carry on that which the men and women of that 
day began, and that, | imagine, is a question. The real question 
that we are to answer and to answer with as much sincerity and 
honesty as we can. 

I have quoted from Webster of 1820, now let me quote from 
Lodge in 1920 upon this question. He is speaking of what has 
been accomplished in this century which we may consider we are 
closing tonight. He says the progress of this century is easily con- 
fused and very often you and | confuse it with material develop- 
ment. But this, Senator Lodge says, is not the real progress. That 
the century has made material progress, has in truth gone far be- 
yond anything that Webster or than these twenty-two people pre- 
dicted or even dreamed to be possible. The unresting labors of 
mechanical science have utterly changed the conditions of man’s 
life on earth in the last five years. There has been more profound 
alteration in the environment than in all the centuries which 
elapsed. 

It was the belief of Senator Lodge that the movement of man- 
kind was ever onward, upward, that men would continue to rise 
on stepping stones to higher things. That was the spirit in both 
England and the United States. 


388 = History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


There are many countries where the rights of the people are as 
yet unknown and when we come to think of the 19th century, not 
in terms simply of its scientific progress, not in terms of its material 
development, but 1n terms of the development of the spirit of 
man, his estimate of human personality, | believe, honestly, that 
we may answer back to those twenty-two people of one hundred 
years ago that in spite of all the imperfections, in spite of all of 
the failures that attain to the highest ideals, the century has done 
very well, indeed. If we come down to the concrete things, such 
for instance, as education, that will be our answer, will it not, for 
it was not until thirteen years after these people formed this con- 
eregation that Pennsylvania adopted a public school system and 
when we contrast the condition of education in 1822 where there 
was nothing particularly, except the college on the one hand and 
the private school on the other, paid for by the people who estab- 
lished them (and this is true of all parts of the country, except 
New England.) We can very readily see the almost measureless 
progress in education. 

We can think back, some of us, to what we can even remember 
and contrast the way business is carried on today, the honor of it, 
the honesty of it, the conception that the right form of trade must 
benefit both parties to 1t. We must admit that in business the 1m- 
provement is vast. Or take politics! Whatever we may say 
about politics of today, sometimes people say things without 
thinking much of them. Sometimes, of course, there are things 
that must be said without much reflection when, for instance, 
Congress will pass a Bonus Act, the House and the Senate. No one 
will quarrel with the man who will put his honest best in a Bonus 
Act, but the one that was passed is a fraud on its face in order that 
the members of Congress may be elected this fall, for no other prin- 
ciple than that, and I should be glad to have an election to defeat 
them all when they try to do things in that way. A fraud act gives 
us justification for saying harsh things about men in political life. 
With the politics of fifty years ago the difference is something that 
is utterly amazing. Men could not remain in politics today of the 
character that enabled them to be men of distinction in politics 
fifty or seventy-five years ago, so that the progress made in one 
hundred years of our history is a progress that is nothing short of 
marvelous. Whatever we may say about what kind of things the 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 389 


Labor Union are doing and what kind of things that Capital 
is doing, whatever we may say about it is simply true, that men 
have come to think about their fellows; that men have come to 
consider the conditions in which people live and that there is more 
thought of the mind and of the heart concerning the well-being 
of people today than there has been in any previous time in the his- 
tory of the country or world. The conditions in one sense are 
conditions that we always have with us, but stop to think of the 
church in 1822 with its relative narrowness, with its seeming sal- 
vation, with its indifference to the rest of the world and think of 
the church today. | think it is a world-wide conception of its 
mission with its great attempt to carry out the last precept of the 
Master Himself to make the whole world Christianized. Or when 
we think of the spirit that 1s in the church today and compare it 
with what was in the church fifty or seventy-five years or one 
hundred years ago, yes, you people of one hundred years ago, we 
have done faily well, we have measurably succeeded in this cen- 
tury in fulfilling your hopes and your expectations of us now. 

Nevertheless, the question we have to answer tonight, and 
pardon me if | detain you a wee bit, is as to whether we who are 
the responsible people now for the knowledge and spiritual equip- 
ment, to hand down not only unimpaired but improved equipment, 
what we have received from the century that in our imagination 
has just closed, for after all we are the recipients of something and 
it is our business to pass on something to those who have not, as 
Webster said, yet come into being. 

Imagine this little band of twenty-two people, forming a mental 
picture of ourselves tonight as the custodians of all the past, as the 
responsible persons for those who will, one hundred years from 
now, look back and assess us even as we look back and think of 
those few one hundred years ago. On an occasion like this, what 
else can we do but examine ourselves and think of ourselves, not 
as men and women simply living our lives and doing our work, 
but as constituting a link between those people back there one 
hundred years ago and those people down yonder, one hundred 
years hence and inquire as to whether the link we are making is 
a link that 1s going to hold, that will stand the strain, that will 
enable us actually to receive and pass on the inheritance that is so 
important for the children of men and for the Church of God? 
That is our problem tonight. 


300 ~—— History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


The peace which has followed the great war is a peace in which 
at this hour more men are under arms than before the war itself. 
Conditions in Europe are so frightful that in every publication 
you pick up the question is asked as to whether the civilization of 
Europe will stand or whether it will crumble and fall and a sense 
of irresponsibility all over the world which refuses to be seen, to 
take hold to pull the world out of the pit into which it has fallen. 
A time when knowledge values are so often confused, ethics so un- 
certain and where group quarrels on group, it will appear every- 
where as to overlook the conditions and the well-being of the 
great group, including all the people intent upon a mastery of sup- 
pression instead of upon a benevolent attitude toward all mankind. 
Now, | do not think that it is hopeless, | am only speaking of what 
is and have we learned out of this welter of conditions that which 
will make us sure tonight that we can answer back to the twenty- 
two, the word of cheer that will assure that those of 2022 will re- 
celve from us what is their due? 

All nations, it seems to me, have learned something. They 
have learned at least that war 1s utterly destructive of material 
and intellect and spiritual resources, but | am not going to dwell 
on that. We have learned partially at least that the destruction 
of these material resources produced hunger and wretchedness. 
Finance and business prostration destroys not only business and 
industry and finance, but destroys the thing upon which these rest. 
The very belief in progress, the very hope of the future, the very 
faith one man has in another and in the measure in which that 
thing is true, 1t 1s our business to see to 1t that this condition shall 
not continue, but that we shall bring ourselves and all the world 
out of it as speedily as possible and when we think of ourselves 
here in America, we must remember this, that our condition is in- 
finitely better than the condition of the people of any other part of 
the world and as contrasted with the people of Europe ideal, and 
yet, unless there can be a renewal of hope, unless there can be a 
rebirth of faith, unless there can be a building up of the spiritual 
resources of men, Europe will go down into the depths of despair 
and they will drag the rest of the world with it. and that at least, 
we must learn 1f we are to be this link that holds so as to pass 
down our inheritance to those who come after us. . 

Then | want to speak of the third thing that we must learn. | 


History of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 391 


trust that we have learned and that is that 1f we are to save Chris- 
tianity we shall have to learn somehow to look away from our- 
selves and study the basic principles upon which all progress rests 
and purpose within our own hearts that we are certainly to stem 
the tide of doubt and pessimism and despair under which the whole 
world is suffering. By coming back to God and by putting into 
operation, so far as we can do it, motives and imaginations and 
forces of unselfishness, all under some forces and imaginations of 
Christ, with a purposeful view to pass down to those who come 
after us an unbroken succession that God of all the past improved 
and vitalized over what it was when we received it. 

Here the writer of Hebrews is calling the roll of the men who 
lived and died during the century before and these died without 
receiving the promise, looking down to the century after them for 
the fulfillment of all their dreams and of all their hopes, so that 
only in time, not in themselves, should they be made perfect. And 
just as those old Saints, whose names are recorded in that eleventh 
Chapter of Hebrews, looked down to those who came after them to 
do that which would make perfect their work, so these twenty-two 
people look down upon us tonight believing that through what we 
do we make perfect what they do and only as we do this shall we 
fulfill their hopes and their expectations, and only as we do this 
shall we also be able to give to those who come after us that which 
they have a right to expect from us, their men and women. 

I know that only as we come back to God, only as we believe 
that He is the source of all our power to achieve, all our capacity 
to fulfill, come back to God and find in Him that which will supple- 
ment our own forces, our own imaginations, our own capacity to 
achieve, only so can we fulfill the hopes of those who have gone 
and hand down to those who come after us the inheritance which 1s 
their due and tonight, in this concluding service of your historical 
series, | trust that above everything else there will rest upon you 
the feeling of responsibility in this most perilous and yet most 
hopeful period in all the history of the world, looking back into the 
past and looking down into the future and resolutely willing to do 
one’s duty, to be true to one’s self and to be true to the God who-e 
we are and whom we serve. 


Dr. Hutchison made the closing prayer; “I Love to Tell the 
Story” was sung; the benediction was pronounced and the wonder- 
ful celebration ended, when without any consciousness of the 


tan, 


392 —-Aistory of First Presbyterian Church of Kittanning 


transition we crossed the invisible line and entered upon a new 
RETIUULL Yam mee te ete ee 

The writer of this fragmentary history completes her task here 
and lays down her pen with mingled feelings of relief and regret. 
The work has been absorbing and sometimes almost overwhelming 
but encouragement from without and determination within were 
the factors which accomplished that which at times seemed to be an 
impossibility. 

As a church we have gone a long way since 1822. From a 
membership of 22 we have grown to be a large organization in 
which almost 3,000 persons have found a church home. Our scope 
of activities and powers has been broadened and yet the elements 
of apparent weakness 1n the beginning have not been entirely want- 
ing during the passing years. Clouds have appeared on the hori- 
zon at intervals-——even now some dark ones may be discerned and 
similar conditions are to be expected until that day when “all 
shall s€e*€ye to eyes 

But this church has not been preserved upon the frailities of its 
individual members. On the contrary it has grown and prospered 
in spite of them because it was founded’ upon The Rock—" Jesus 
Christ Himself being the Chief Corner Stone.” 


“O, where are kings and empires now 
Of old that went and came? 

But Lord, Thy Church 1s praying yet, 
A thousands years the same. 


“We mark her goodly battlements, 
And her foundations strong; 
We hear within the solemn voice 

Of ber unending song. 


“For not like kingdoms of the world 
Thy holy Church, O God; 
Though earthquake shocks are threatening her, 
And tempests are abroad. 


“Unshaken as eternal hills, 
Immovable she stands; 
A mountain that shall fill the earth, 
A house not made by hands.” 
—Bishop A. Cleveland Coxe. 














rinceton Theological Seminary Libra 


4 on 
heared 


* 


7 Be ¢? 
<0 Ay et 





ad 
eer: 
+3 
4 mM ictat. 
z 
sere é eg pe ncsekah sper 
: 
idnrelin 
ere te 


aeot 
gett 


a 


Pept hee 
Are 


3 
5 


i 


a 


ATE 

Bi tekt 
sthet: panel oy 
: ents, 


4. zrah 
prterad 
Pa 


ake. 


=2 


Se Ste. 

Utlessteee bya as 

$714 he) ee a etc a hal 

=) ep pat 
2 w NL aeS oe f: 3 
net eceeeat a A a 
S25 geri. or, ete TE2 Eis ‘ 
ete it at FREES ge 


= tatu 
eS \g- 


rt tieeede 


elt. 
wis 


Pei 
aes = 


err 
eer) 


aie. 
teat 


+35 
“de 


S IE ch 


te 
2. 


7c 


a2 
4 
4 


Je} 
tits 


L3 

res 

A ie APE PST 
erste: vial 


nm c » 
Coe or et 
wb EO et PR 8 OF 
Bt sdaced Rete eetehe ts 
BLES ane tee 
ab VFR mad ed UF Ut 8, BOS 


tase 
ae ey ih : bape oe 
ae ath ete he Bohs ? 
cas pray eerie papetywretene: re niet) 
Piet eet irr res rere vabey tne Tints 
owe peseayes' i at stones: ¢ ere ie ee keto 
sy so seat ted sat, eta & 
- 





